Laufen Castle

Laufen, Germany, Germany

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Laufen Castle (Schloss Laufen) is a historic 15th century castle in the Bavarian town of Laufen, Germany, overlooking the Salzach River near the Austrian border. Built for the Archbishops of Salzburg, it served as an important administrative and residential center and was expanded over the centuries while retaining its distinctive square-shaped design. The castle stands on a site with much older roots and has been associated with regional power and governance since the Middle Ages. Historical records note that Emperor Frederick Barbarossa held court there in 1166, highlighting its long-standing significance. During World War II, the castle was used first as a prisoner-of-war camp for military officers and later as an internment camp for civilians, including people deported from the Channel Islands. After the war, it remained an important historic landmark in the region. Today, Laufen Castle is valued primarily for its historical importance, its commanding riverside setting, and its connection to the rich cultural heritage of Bavaria and the former Prince-Archbishopric of Salzburg.