Hausneindorf Castle: A Medieval Fortress and Estate in Germany

Visitor Information

Google Rating: 4.3

Popularity: Low

Country: Germany

Civilization: Unclassified

Site type: Military

Remains: Castle

History

Hausneindorf Castle is situated in the Selke-Aue municipality of modern-day Germany. It was originally constructed during the Middle Ages by the rulers of the County of Blankenburg, specifically under Henry the Lion around the year 1140. This early fortress was strategically placed on a hilltop overlooking the Selke River to assert control over the region.

Shortly after its founding, around 1168, the castle faced destruction, though it was rebuilt just a few years later in 1172, indicating its continued importance. Over the following centuries, the castle entered the historical record as a pledged possession connected to prominent regional powers. By 1310, it was noted as part of the holdings of the Prince-Bishopric of Halberstadt but was under pledge to the County of Regenstein. This demonstrates the castle’s role within the shifting political and ecclesiastical landscape of the area.

Between 1429 and 1573, the Lords of Hoym held the site as a pledged estate. This period likely reflects a sustained noble stewardship, aligning the castle with local aristocratic families. In the early 18th century, specifically in 1711, the property underwent a significant change when it was transformed into a Prussian state domain. From that point, its character shifted from military stronghold to agricultural estate, a transition that had a lasting impact on the site’s physical appearance and use, signaling the end of its function as a fortress.

Today, the castle site is recognized for its archaeological value and is preserved as part of the local heritage record, reflecting its layered history from medieval fortress to farmland estate.

Remains

Hausneindorf Castle occupies a roughly circular plateau, with the entire complex spanning approximately 175 meters in diameter. The defensive arrangement includes wide dry moats encircling the hilltop, designed to protect the castle from attack. Within these outer defenses lies the core area of the castle, known as the inner bailey, which itself forms a large circle about 100 meters across. This inner enclosure is surrounded by a substantial ring wall and protected by a zwinger, a type of enclosed outer ward measuring between 10 and 15 meters in width, that served as an additional defensive barrier.

Entry to the fortress was strategically planned from the lower lands along the Selke River. Two bridges provided access across the moats, leading to the main entrance situated on the eastern side. This gateway was fortified with a complex double gate system, which controlled access into the outer bailey, adding layers of security.

Within the northwest portion of the inner bailey lies a castellum, a smaller fortified enclosure approximately 40 by 40 meters in size. This section houses a prominently preserved Romanesque palas, or residential hall, measuring 10 by 25 meters and situated on its western side. The palas reflects the medieval style of construction and would have functioned as the main living quarters.

In the southeast corner of the castellum stands a square bergfried, a type of tall defensive tower typical of medieval castles. The bergfried measures 7.5 by 7.5 meters at its base and rises to a height of 27 meters. Originally built in Romanesque style, it was later heightened during the Gothic period, demonstrating architectural evolution over time. Inside this tower, remnants of a Renaissance-era spiral staircase remain visible, highlighting further modifications and continued use through different historical periods.

Together, these surviving elements offer a clear picture of the castle’s military and residential layout, preserving evidence of its construction, adaptation, and continued presence as a landmark in the region.