How old is Schloss Waldeck?

The stronghold was first documented in 1120, and its keep dates from the late 13th or early 14th century.

Who lived in the castle over the centuries?

It was the residence of the Counts of Waldeck until 1655, then served as a military fortress, barracks, and from 1734 to 1868 as a prison.

What can visitors see at Schloss Waldeck today?

A museum on the site's history as a workhouse and women's prison, along with the medieval keep and the panoramic Altane terrace.

How do you get to Schloss Waldeck?

The castle can be reached by road from the town of Waldeck or via the Waldecker Bergbahn cable car from the Edersee shore.

Is there a hotel at Schloss Waldeck?

Yes, parts of the historic buildings now house a hotel and restaurant.

Schloss Waldeck

Waldeck Castle

Waldeck

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Where: Waldeck

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Schloss Waldeck stands in Waldeck (Landkreis Waldeck-Frankenberg), in Hesse, Germany. Its opening hours and prices have not been verified at the source yet.

Schloss Waldeck rises on a rocky spur above the Edersee, in Waldeck, in the Landkreis Waldeck-Frankenberg, Hesse. First recorded in 1120, the stronghold served as the seat of the Counts of Waldeck until 1655, later becoming a garrison and then a prison, including a women's prison from 1734 to 1868. Visitors today can see a museum devoted to that prison history, alongside the medieval keep and the Altane terrace, which looks out over the lake and the Kellerwald forest.

What to know

The museum focuses mainly on the site's history as a workhouse and women's prison in the 18th and 19th centuries.
An audio guide tour is available to explore the various parts of the building.
A hotel and restaurant now occupy parts of the historic complex.
The Waldecker Bergbahn cable car connects the castle with the area below by the Edersee.
The Altane terrace on the south side offers wide views of the dam and lake in clear weather.

Practical information

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

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Where this château is

Waldeck · Landkreis Waldeck-Frankenberg · Hessen

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This châteauChâteaux within 40 km

Address

Schloss Waldeck 1, 34513 Waldeck

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

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Château phone number

+49 5623 5890

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Heritage status: Protection status unknown

In pictures

Frequently asked

How old is Schloss Waldeck?: The stronghold was first documented in 1120, and its keep dates from the late 13th or early 14th century.
Who lived in the castle over the centuries?: It was the residence of the Counts of Waldeck until 1655, then served as a military fortress, barracks, and from 1734 to 1868 as a prison.
What can visitors see at Schloss Waldeck today?: A museum on the site's history as a workhouse and women's prison, along with the medieval keep and the panoramic Altane terrace.
How do you get to Schloss Waldeck?: The castle can be reached by road from the town of Waldeck or via the Waldecker Bergbahn cable car from the Edersee shore.
Is there a hotel at Schloss Waldeck?: Yes, parts of the historic buildings now house a hotel and restaurant.