Greetsiel Castle: A Historic East Frisian Stronghold in Germany
Visitor Information
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Official Website: www.greetsiel-nordsee.org
Country: Germany
Civilization: Medieval European
Remains: Military
History
Greetsiel Castle is located in the municipality of Krummhörn in modern-day Germany. It was constructed by the East Frisian Cirksena family, a noble lineage that rose to prominence in the region during the late Middle Ages.
The origins of the castle trace back to the period between 1362 and 1388, when the Cirksena built a fortified stronghold known as the “olde huus.” This initial structure served as their ancestral seat after they moved from Appingen, prompted by the silting of the sea channel that had previously granted access near Appingen. Establishing their residence at Greetsiel allowed the family to consolidate their local influence.
A significant expansion occurred between 1457 and 1460 under Ulrich Cirksena, who transformed the site into a four-wing complex featuring a prominent defensive tower. The castle’s importance grew notably in 1464, when Ulrich was granted the title of Imperial Count by Emperor Frederick III and was enfeoffed with East Frisia, formalizing his rule over the territory.
During the following decades, Greetsiel Castle continued to play a key role despite the political center shifting first to Emden and later to Aurich. Notably, in 1534, the castle was captured amid the Geldrian feud by Balthasar von Esens. The castle was also the birthplace of Count Edzard the Great in 1462, who presided over a period of expanding Cirksena power in East Frisia.
In the early 17th century, tensions between the local estates and Count Enno III culminated in the occupation of Greetsiel and the castle by troops from Emden in 1609. Later, during the regency of Christine Charlotte of Württemberg in 1684, the castle faced a siege and was taken by Brandenburg soldiers. These forces stationed a garrison in the castle that remained until 1692.
Following the extinction of the Cirksena family line and the rise of Prussian control in the region in 1744, the castle was no longer maintained as a noble residence. Beginning in 1755, it functioned as a prison. Eventually, the property was sold for demolition in 1777, marking the end of its active role in regional affairs.
Remains
The architectural layout of Greetsiel Castle evolved into a four-winged brick structure oriented from northeast to southwest. The complete complex measured approximately 31.4 meters in length, with the height from the surrounding moat to the roof reaching around 9.4 meters. The castle’s design featured defensive elements typical of the period, including a wide moat and a tall corner tower.
The original “olde huus,” predating the full castle, was a sturdy tower house measuring about 12.6 by 11.5 meters. It had foundation walls nearly two meters thick, indicating its role as a strongly fortified dwelling. This building likely made up the east wing before the castle’s later expansions led to its demolition during the enlargement of the eastern side.
One of the most striking features was a corner tower standing 31.4 meters tall with a diameter of 10 meters. This tower served as a key part of the castle’s defenses and would have been a prominent landmark visible from the surrounding landscape.
Surrounding the castle was a wide water-filled moat measuring roughly 25 meters across and over six meters deep. The moat provided an effective obstacle to attackers and was crossed by a wooden bridge, allowing controlled access to the complex.
Today, only a few elements of the original castle survive. Among these is the “Schatthaus,” which functioned as the castle’s economic courtyard, serving practical and support roles within the castle’s operation. This building remains on site and offers a tangible connection to the castle’s economic activities. Additionally, the old Cirksena stone house, part of the family’s holdings, still stands, preserving a fragment of the lineage’s architectural legacy.
