Kriebstein Castle

Kriebstein, Germany, Germany

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Kriebstein Castle, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop above the Zschopau River in Kriebstein, Saxony, Germany, is renowned as Saxony's most beautiful late Gothic knight's castle.

First mentioned in 1384, it was built by the von Beerwalde family around 1400 as a residential seat, featuring a tall residential tower completed in 1399, a chapel, and a fortified ring wall with gatehouse.

Acquired by Hugold III von Schleinitz in 1465, it underwent significant Gothic expansions by architect Arnold von Westfalen, including a utility wing, ballroom, and kitchen building, retaining its medieval footprint despite later changes under families like von Schönberg and von Arnim.

After post-WWII use as housing and a museum reopening in 1949, it now welcomes visitors with tours, events, and a tavern, preserving its fairy-tale charm.