Nordeck Castle

Nordeck Castle in the Nordeck district of Allendorf is a magnificent relic of the past that characterises the image of the small village. Its origins date back to the 12th century, even though no document from this period has yet been discovered. Historians estimate the start of construction based on the typical chapel size, which is based on the ‘Roman foot’ - a unit of measurement that was only used until the 11th century.

The castle courtyard is framed by buildings from the 14th to 17th centuries, which together with an old fountain, the castle chapel and a well-tended castle garden form an atmospheric historical ensemble. The castle chapel is located in the outer bailey, whose walls enclosed part of the village on the hillside and thus provided a defensive position. The complex itself, with a moat, shield wall and a round keep from the 12th and 13th centuries on the attack side, bears witness to the careful consideration given to defence.

Despite its over 800-year history, Nordeck Castle is still well preserved and actively used. It has changed hands many times over the centuries. A memorial stone in the castle garden commemorates one of the last residents: Götz-Eberhard Freiherr von Nordeck zu Rabenau, the last of his tribe.

Today, the castle is owned by the Counts of Schwerin zu Friedelhausen and serves as a children's and youth welfare centre run by Lebenshilfe Gießen e.V.. Even though the castle complex is privately used and can only be visited from the outside, it is well worth climbing the small mountain. The romantic setting of Nordeck Castle will inspire you with its historical aura and charming location.

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