Mandelberg Castle

Archaeological investigations revealed that the castle was built and expanded in three phases. The first complex, consisting of wooden or half-timbered buildings, was probably built in the late 11th century and used until the mid-13th century. Towards the end of its use, the much larger second castle was built. The complex had an almond-shaped floor plan with dimensions of 45 by 32.5 meters. In the west of the complex stands the almost rectangular keep, which is still preserved today. The wall from the tower to the north corner was probably a shield wall and was built, like the southern wall, only after the keep. The walls themselves supported a battlement. The internal development could no longer be determined, as a further expansion took place in the mid-15th century. A cistern was installed in the 14th century. In the 15th century, a new palas was built at the south corner, and possibly an economic building in the north corner. Also in the 15th century, the zwinger on the east side was probably built. This was later partially renewed. It is assumed that the castle was completely surrounded by a zwinger by 1500 at the latest.