Important fortress from the 15th century
The place Auerbach was first mentioned around 784 in the researcher Codex "Laurenshamensis". Through marriage, parts of Bergstrasse 1135 came to Heinrich II von Katzenelnbogen.
The castle was probably built in 1222 by Count Diether IV.
The plan for the construction of an impregnable castle complex for the Katzenelnbogischen properties south of the Main and to secure the road toll on the important north-south connection along the mountain road had matured for a long time. In the following years the most important fortress in the Upper County of Katzenelnbogen was built. In the 15th century A shield wall-like bastion was built on the site of the collapsed high medieval keep, one of the first in the Middle Rhine region. In 1546 the castle was destroyed in the Schmalkaldic War by imperial troops and in 1674 by French troops.
You can see the northwest tower on the left and the southwest tower on the right. In between are some buildings for the accommodation of the castle residents as well as supply facilities, including a forge on the inner north wall.
On the outer kennel wall, in the area of the main gate, further supply structures can be seen.
The north wall (shield wall from the High Middle Ages) connects the north-west tower with the newly built bastion.
A bridge with a drawbridge at the first gate overcomes the mighty moat that separates the castle from the ridge.
The upper castle complex with palas and supply buildings is closely surrounded by another kennel with the third gate.
