Is Auerbach Castle a ruin or an intact building?

It is a ruin, largely destroyed after being burned by French troops in the late 17th century, though partly restored since the 19th century.

Can visitors climb the towers of Auerbach Castle?

Yes, the north and south towers are open to the public following restoration, with the south tower's staircase last renewed in 2007.

Where is Auerbach Castle located?

It stands above the Auerbach district of Bensheim, in the Landkreis Bergstraße in Hesse, on a hilltop of the Odenwald range.

Is there a restaurant at the castle?

A panoramic restaurant in the castle courtyard offers medieval themed dining.

Auerbach Castle

Bensheim

Visit

Hours to be confirmed

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You are leaving for the château’s own website

Where: Bensheim

Hours and prices not verified at the source yet.Check on the official website

To make a day of it

Open within 20 km

Sleep nearby

StarkenburgAccommodation on site7 km

Schloss Auerbach stands in Bensheim (Landkreis Bergstraße), in Hesse, Germany. The building is a listed Baudenkmal. Its opening hours and prices have not been verified at the source yet.

Auerbach Castle rises above the village of Auerbach on a hilltop of the Odenwald range, overlooking Bensheim. Its towers and stretches of wall recall a stronghold raised in the 13th century by the Counts of Katzenelnbogen to guard the trading route along the Bergstrasse. Left in ruins after being burned by French troops in the late 17th century, it has been partly rebuilt and secured since the 19th century, including its two restored towers. Visitors today can explore the triangular outline of the keep, a vaulted cellar and a narrow passage built into the thickness of the walls.

Written from Auerbach Castle

What to know

The site can be visited freely outdoors, the ruin being reached by a path climbing up from Auerbach.
The visit involves a climb to the summit of the Auerberg hill, not technically demanding but with some elevation gain.
Both the north and south towers, along with a narrow secret passage built into the walls, are open to visitors following their restoration.
A panoramic restaurant on the site offers medieval themed dining.
Events such as Walpurgis Night and open air performances take place at certain times of year in the castle courtyard.

Practical information

Opening hours

Daily 11 am – 5 pm (ruins)

Visit duration: Not verified
Wheelchair access: Not verified
Dogs: Not verified
Parking: Not verified

On site

Food and drink
Child-friendly

Where this château is

Bensheim · Landkreis Bergstraße · Hessen

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This châteauChâteaux within 40 km

Address

Bensheim, Landkreis Bergstraße

Directions open from wherever you are, by car or public transport.

Get directions View on a map

Heritage status: Kulturdenkmal in Hessen

In pictures

Frequently asked

Is Auerbach Castle a ruin or an intact building?: It is a ruin, largely destroyed after being burned by French troops in the late 17th century, though partly restored since the 19th century.
Can visitors climb the towers of Auerbach Castle?: Yes, the north and south towers are open to the public following restoration, with the south tower's staircase last renewed in 2007.
Where is Auerbach Castle located?: It stands above the Auerbach district of Bensheim, in the Landkreis Bergstraße in Hesse, on a hilltop of the Odenwald range.
Is there a restaurant at the castle?: A panoramic restaurant in the castle courtyard offers medieval themed dining.