Castles around Knau are situated in a region characterized by its historical significance and natural landscapes, particularly along the Saale river. The area features a blend of preserved castles and ruins, offering insights into medieval history. Visitors can explore various historical sites nestled within the scenic environment of eastern Thuringia. The region provides opportunities to combine historical exploration with outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
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The fairy tale “The Golden Goose” was filmed at Burgk Castle.
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This construction is not very pretty, but useful.
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The red tower with its half-timbered hood is a great photo motif.
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In the Middle Ages, the bailiffs of Gera (ancestors of the Reussen) built a castle at a location that was well placed for defense. The fortification is still preserved.
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The castle is entered via a stone bridge. A customs tariff table is displayed on the outer bridge under the office building.
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The interior of the castle ranges from the simple elegance of the Knights' Hall, the largest room in the oldest part of the castle, to the dining room, which is decorated in the French style, to the state bedroom, a room that elevates the bed to the throne of statesmanlike affairs. In addition, the music salon and China room allow a glimpse into the refined living culture of the Rococo period.
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The 43-meter-high tower is made of a steel and wood construction. The curved wood construction makes it architecturally interesting. You have to pay an entrance fee and climb 192 steps to get the great panoramic view. The Saale Tower is open until nightfall.
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The view is also worthwhile in every season 😃👍🏼
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The Knau region offers a blend of preserved castles and ruins, providing insights into medieval history. You can visit well-preserved sites like Burgk Castle, known for its historic living and showrooms, or explore the reconstructed Wysburg Castle Ruins, which offers a rewarding experience after a challenging ascent.
Yes, Burgk Castle is noted as family-friendly and even served as a filming location for the fairy tale “The Golden Goose.” The Ice Bridge, which offers views of Burgk Castle, is also categorized as family-friendly. Many of the viewpoints and dam areas, like Burgkhammer Dam – View of Burgk Castle, are suitable for families.
For panoramic views, the Saale Tower is an excellent choice. This 43-meter-high steel and wood construction requires an entrance fee and a climb of 192 steps, but it rewards visitors with magnificent vistas. Additionally, the Ice Bridge and Burgkhammer Dam both offer great views of Burgk Castle and the water.
Yes, Burgk Castle includes a restaurant among its facilities, making it a convenient option for visitors looking for refreshments or a meal during their visit.
The Ice Bridge, which provides views of Burgk Castle, is categorized as wheelchair accessible. For other sites, it's advisable to check specific accessibility details, as some, like Wysburg Castle Ruins, are noted for having a 'difficult access'.
The region around Knau offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes, running trails, and mountain biking routes. For example, there are easy hikes like the 'Dreba-Plothener Pond Area – Erich's Hut loop' and running trails such as the 'Stilt house at Hausteich Plothen – Plothener Teiche Campsite loop'. Mountain bikers can explore routes like 'Erich's Hut near Knau – Tree-lined avenue at Hausteich loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes around Knau guide, running trails around Knau guide, and MTB trails around Knau guide.
Burgk Castle, picturesquely situated on the banks of the Upper Saale, is considered one of the most beautiful castles in central Germany. It functions as a cultural center in eastern Thuringia, housing historic living and showrooms, precious interiors, and hosting collections, exhibitions, concerts, and festivals. Its impressive late medieval fortifications enclose a building rich in history and art.
Wysburg Castle Ruins is a reconstructed castle complex that is considered an insider tip in the region. It's known for its archaeological significance, with evidence of a castle siege by King Rudolf von Habsburg in 1289/90. Despite a somewhat challenging access, visitors are rewarded with a beautifully maintained site, thanks to a dedicated castle association.
Yes, the castles around Knau are often nestled within scenic natural environments. Burgk Castle is picturesquely situated on the banks of the Upper Saale river. The Saale Tower, Ice Bridge, and Burgkhammer Dam all offer views of the Saale river and its associated lakes, such as the Burgkhammer Dam reservoir.
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical insights offered by the preserved castles and ruins, the scenic beauty of the Saale river landscape, and the opportunities to combine historical exploration with outdoor activities. The reconstructed Wysburg Castle Ruins is often highlighted as a rewarding insider tip, and Burgk Castle is praised for its cultural offerings and picturesque setting.
Yes, the Saale Tower, a popular viewpoint, is listed as having parking facilities. For other specific castles or sites, it's recommended to check local signage or official websites for parking information.


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