Veste Niederhaus

Passau, Germany, Germany

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Veste Niederhaus in Passau, Germany, is a medieval fortress dating back to around 1250, likely built under Prince-Bishop Otto von Lonsdorf.

It is located on a rocky promontory at the confluence of the Ilz and Danube rivers, below the larger Veste Oberhaus castle, to which it is connected by a double battlement walkway from the 14th century. The castle played a key role in the region's defense and was involved in significant historical events such as the 1367-68 citizen uprising when it was briefly seized by townsfolk.

A powder explosion in 1435 destroyed much of the upper floors, but it was rebuilt with grand halls, chapels, and ornate decoration praised by notable figures like Pope Pius II. Over time, it transitioned from a residential fortress to a prison and by the 18th century became a workhouse for the poor. In 1805 it came under Bavarian control and was modified to improve artillery defense, losing some of its original tower height.

The castle remains privately owned today, not open to the public, and was renovated into exclusive residences in recent years, retaining its historical and architectural significance as part of Passau’s fortified heritage.