A fairy-tale castle worthy of the medieval heroic epic discovered within hangs on the edge of a cliff rising from the Altmühltal countryside and Essing-Prunn River.
The Castle Prunn (Burg Prunn) is a glorious fortress that sits precariously on the edge of a high rocky outcrop. The reds of its gabled roofs can be seen from a great distance around the Essing-Prunn River area. Climb to the base of the castle to enjoy unobstructed views of the picturesque valley just south of Riedenburg.
Cross the wooden drawbridge and get a sense of the rich history of the castle, which dates back to about 1200. One of its oldest parts is the keep, which stands out for its gray rooftop and 102-foot (31-meter) height. Enter the castle via a guided tour, which takes place on the hour.
The docent will talk of Duke Ludwig of Bavaria and the Fraunberg vom Haag family. Look for the family coat of arms, still hanging on one of the walls. Stroll through the imposing hall on the lower floor and notice the array of Gothic features installed by the Fraunbergs.
Among the tour’s most intriguing stops is the Prunn Castle and the Nibelungenlied exhibit. Browse the informative display to learn about the medieval manuscript that was found here and relates a German heroic epic poem. The historic text provides a glimpse into the medieval society’s treatment of law and the role of women, among other themes.
Visit the castle when it is open to guests daily from morning to late afternoon in summer. In winter, it closes on Mondays. Adults must pay a fee, while those under age 18 can enter for free.
The Castle Prunn is carved onto the cliff face in the southeastern outskirts of the villages of Prunn and Riedenburg. Take a bus to a stop just outside the castle or drive and leave your vehicle in the Parkplatz Burg Prunn parking lot. Travel around the region to visit other nearby sights such as the Falkenhof Schloss Rosenburg, the Burgruine Tachenstein and the Kristallmuseum Riedenburg.
