82 Normannstein Castle in Treffurt
82 Normannstein Castle in Treffurt
Normannstein Castle is a medieval fortress, predominantly Romanesque in style, built in the 11th century.
It originally served as a watchtower to protect the three fords across the Werra River, which gave the town its name.
The initial structure consisted of a round tower and a surrounding wall.
In the 12th century, the noble Treffurt knights expanded the Normannstein into a full-fledged castle by constructing two square residential and defensive towers—the gate tower and the chapel tower.
The Treffurt knights, a highly respected noble family, served the Landgrave of Thuringia but became infamous as robber knights in the 14th century.
In 1336, the combined forces of the ruling princes of Mainz, Hesse, and Thuringia put an end to their activities.
Following the construction of three administrative courtyards in the town, the castle gradually fell into decline.
Only the round tower remained in use as a prison in the 16th century.
Over the years, the castle changed ownership multiple times, but no significant modifications were made, preserving its medieval character from the knightly era.
In 1894, estate owner Gustav Döring converted the chapel building into a tavern, making the castle a popular excursion destination.
Today, after extensive renovations, the castle houses the exhibition „Werraburgen über Werrafurten“, showcasing the region’s historical castles along the Werra River.
Treffurt is also a stop along the German Timber-Frame Road, which runs „From the Harz Mountains to the Thuringian Forest.“
Further Information
Tourist Information Treffurt
Puschkinstraße 3
99830 Treffurt
Tel.: +49 36923 51542
Fax: +49 36923 51546