Top 17 Castles around Schlegel
Best castles around Schlegel are found in the region surrounding this village in Thuringia, Germany. Schlegel is located within the Saale-Orla-Kreis district and is now part of the municipality Rosenthal am Rennsteig. While the village itself does not feature prominent castles, the broader area offers historical sites and remnants of past fortifications for exploration. The region is characterized by its position near the Saale River, marking the border between Thuringia and Bavaria, and features geological formations and microclimates.
Best castles…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Saale Bridge at the Blankenberg Paper Mill
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Schloßberg Nordhalben Summit and Mushroom Sculpture
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Blankenberg Castle Ruins
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Reitzenstein Castle
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Waidmannsheil Hunting Lodge
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Located directly at Reitzenstein Castle, this memorial commemorates the victims of the First World War.
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The Reitzenstein family descended from the ancient Franconian nobility. They first appeared in documents in 1318 under the name "Konrad von der Grün," to whom the family line also traces its origins. As early as 1325, Chunrad von der Grün called himself "Reichzenstein" after the Reitzenstein Fortress, which he owned and was built around 1130. The ancestral seat of the Barons of Reitzenstein passed into other hands over time. The St. Wolfgang Castle Chapel was later abandoned. Parts of the altar found a new home in the Issigau Church. Reitzenstein served as a court seat until the mid-19th century. In 1889, the Barons of Reitzenstein repurchased their ancestral seat.
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Viewpoint on the Schlossberg with a mushroom as a seat with weather protection
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quite overgrown in summer
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Beautiful place, worth it
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Beautiful hunting lodge of the Reuss family.
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The castle towers over the small town of Reitzenstein. It is privately owned by the Freiherren von Reitzenstein.
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So, the beautiful castle is now the epicenter of a failed coup d'etat. I would have liked to have looked at it last summer, but it was locked and barricaded by the Reussens. Why?¿ is now a bit clearer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical sites can I explore around Schlegel?
The area around Schlegel offers a variety of historical structures and their remnants. You can visit actual castle ruins like Blankenberg Castle Ruins, sites of former castles, and historical bridges such as the Saale Bridge at the Blankenberg Paper Mill, which also marks the historic border between Thuringia and Bavaria.
Are there family-friendly castles or historical sites near Schlegel?
Yes, several sites are considered family-friendly. Blankenberg Castle Ruins and the Saale Bridge at the Blankenberg Paper Mill are great for families. Additionally, Schloßberg Nordhalben Summit and Mushroom Sculpture offers a unique natural and cultural experience suitable for all ages, and Schloss Issigau, with its restaurant and campsite, is also family-friendly.
What natural features or viewpoints can I find near the castles?
Many historical sites in the region offer excellent views. From Blankenberg Castle Ruins, you can enjoy beautiful vistas of the Saale valley. The Schloßberg Nordhalben Summit provides a great view of Nordhalben and features unique geological formations, giving it an alpine impression with its rocks and 'summit cross'.
Can I learn about the local history at these sites?
Absolutely. The Saale Bridge at the Blankenberg Paper Mill is near a museum detailing the region's papermaking history. Schloss Issigau has a rich history, first mentioned in 1398 and rebuilt after the Thirty Years War. Reitzenstein Castle is the ancestral seat of the Barons of Reitzenstein, with a history dating back to 1130.
What outdoor activities are available near the castles around Schlegel?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore cycling routes, including moderate to difficult tours like 'Tour zur Kur' or the 'Saale Bridge Harra – Bleilochtalsperre loop'. For hiking enthusiasts, there are easy trails such as the 'Black Pond – Ponds for smooth newts loop'. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Bleiloch Dam – Bleiloch Reservoir loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Schlegel, Easy hikes around Schlegel, and Gravel biking around Schlegel guides.
Are there any castles that are still privately owned or have been repurposed?
Yes, Reitzenstein Castle is privately owned by the Freiherren von Reitzenstein, who repurchased their ancestral seat in 1889. Schloss Issigau, after being rebuilt as a pleasure palace, was converted into a catering business with a campsite in 1976.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the castles and historical sites in this region?
Visitors appreciate the beautiful views, especially from sites like Blankenberg Castle Ruins and Schloßberg Nordhalben Summit. The historical flair and the opportunity to explore remnants of past fortifications are also highly valued. The region's unique geological features and microclimates add to the appeal.
Is there a specific castle or site that marks the border between Thuringia and Bavaria?
Yes, the Saale Bridge at the Blankenberg Paper Mill is notable for marking the border between Thuringia and Bavaria. As soon as you cross this bridge over the Saale River, you leave Thuringia and enter Bavaria on the other bank.
Are there any castles that have been destroyed and rebuilt?
Schloss Issigau was attacked multiple times, besieged, conquered, and destroyed during the Thirty Years War. It was later rebuilt in 1750 as a pleasure palace.
What is the significance of the 'Schloßberg Nordhalben Summit' in relation to castles?
While there is no longer a visible castle structure, the Schloßberg Nordhalben Summit is named 'Castle Mountain' (Schloßberg) and is recognized for its historical significance as a former castle site. It's also noted for its geological features and special microclimate, making it a natural monument.
Are there any facilities or dining options near these historical sites?
Schloss Issigau has been converted into a catering business with a restaurant and also offers a campsite, making it a convenient stop for visitors looking for refreshments or accommodation.
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