Are you interested in exploring historic castles? These are the must-see castles in Thuringia:
1Tiefurt House
WeimarTiefurt Castle is a quaint castle situated on the banks of the Ilm River. It is nestled in the village of Tiefurt, which is approximately four kilometers away from the heart of the city of Weimar. This location makes it a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city center, yet close enough for easy access. 2Schloss Wespenstein
GräfenthalSchloss Wespenstein is a historic castle located in the city of Gräfenthal in Thuringia, right on the border with Bavaria. The castle played a significant role in securing the pass section of a medieval army and trade route that stretched from Leipzig via Saalfeld to Nuremberg over the ridge of the Thuringian Slate Mountains. This strategic location underscores the historical importance of the castle. 3Schloss Brandenstein
RanisSchloss Brandenstein, also known as Burg Brandenstein, is a historic castle located in the Brandenstein district of the city of Ranis in the Saale-Orla district in Thuringia. The castle is situated on a Zechstein reef, a unique geological feature that adds to the charm and historical significance of the site. 4Krautheim Castle
KrautheimBurg Krautheim, also known as Krautheim Castle, was constructed in 1213 by Wolfrad I. von Krautheim. It is located on a mountain spur above the town of Krautheim in the Hohenlohe district in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The castle's strategic location offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area, making it a fascinating destination for tourists. 5Sondershausen Palace
SondershausenOver the centuries, Sondershausen Palace has undergone numerous architectural transformations, reflecting influences from various periods. The Renaissance influence is evident in the south, east, and old north wings of the palace, which were built between the 1530s and the 1550s. The Baroque style is seen in the alterations and enlargements made to the three Renaissance wings in the 1680s. The Rococo influence is seen in the new west and north wings, which were started in 1764. 6Osterburg (Weida)
WeidaThe Osterburg is a historical castle located on a hill in the center of the city of Weida, in the Thuringian district of Greiz. Its strategic location offers a panoramic view of the city, making it a popular spot for tourists. The castle's history and architecture also provide a glimpse into the region's past. 7Museum Burg Wendelstein - Vacha
VachaBurg Wendelstein is a castle that was built during the medieval period and is situated in the city of Vacha, in the Wartburgkreis district of Thuringia, Germany. The castle was converted into a city museum in 1986, making it a significant historical and cultural site for visitors to explore. 8Museum Schloss Tenneberg
WaltershausenSchloss Tenneberg, located in the city of Waltershausen in Thuringia, is a medieval castle that has seen multiple transformations over the centuries. Today, it serves as a museum, offering a unique glimpse into the region's rich history. The castle's strategic location on the northern edge of the Thuringian Forest made it an important stronghold in the past. Now, it offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the various facets of its past. 9Schloss Heringen
Heringen/HelmeSchloss Heringen is a significant historical site located in the Thuringian town of Heringen/Helme. The castle complex, which dates back to the Renaissance period, was first mentioned in a document from the Fulda Monastery in 1155. This makes it a site of considerable historical interest, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's past. 10Schloss Molsdorf
ErfurtSchloss Molsdorf is a Baroque castle situated in Molsdorf, a district of Erfurt. It is located approximately 12 kilometers south of the city. The castle is considered one of the most beautiful Baroque castles in Thuringia and is a significant part of the region's cultural heritage. 11Meininger Museen
MeiningenThe Meininger Museen is a combination of three cultural-historical museums located in the district town of Meiningen. It is the largest museum in southern Thuringia and houses the most extensive art collection in Thuringia. The main part of the museum, divided into four sections, is located in Elisabethenburg Castle, the former residence of the Dukes of Saxe-Meiningen. 12Castle and playing card museum
AltenburgThe Altenburg Castle, known in German as Schloß Altenburg, is a historic monument located in the city of Altenburg, in the Thuringia region of Germany. This castle is a significant part of the city's history and offers a glimpse into the past. 13Museum Burg Ranis
RanisBurg Ranis is a castle situated on a ridge near the Thuringian city of Ranis, a short distance from Pößneck. This location offers a unique vantage point and a scenic view of the surrounding area, making it an interesting destination for tourists who appreciate historical architecture and natural beauty. 14Regionalmuseum im Schloss zu Bad Frankenhausen
Bad Frankenhausen/KyffhäuserThe castle in Bad Frankenhausen, located in Thuringia, was once a secondary residence of the House of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt. Today, it serves as the home of the Kyffhäuserkreis Regional Museum. This historical site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the rich history of the region. 15Werratalmuseum
GerstungenThe Werratalmuseum Gerstungen is a regional museum that was established in 1932. It is situated in the premises of a former castle in the municipality of Gerstungen, located in the Wartburgkreis in Thuringia. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region. 16Museum Leuchtenburg
SeitenrodaLeuchtenburg is a castle situated in Seitenroda, Thuringia. This castle, known as the 'Queen of the Saale Valley', is a popular tourist destination. It offers a panoramic view of the Middle Saale Valley and the Thuringian Woodland from its location on a visible mountain cone with a height of 395 meters above sea level. The castle has a long and varied history, serving as a medieval administrative seat, a poorhouse, a madhouse, and a prison. It has been used for tourism since the late 19th century. 17Burgk Castle
BurgkThe castle is now home to a museum that provides a detailed portrayal of the princely lifestyle of the past. Visitors can explore various exhibits that showcase the opulence and grandeur of the era, offering a unique insight into the history and culture of the time.