Deserted Osterland Castle

The history of the Wüsten Schloss in terms of its origins, purpose and name has not yet been fully clarified.
Two major archaeological excavations in the 20th century provided more detailed information about the extent and size of the complex and its use. The complex was completely excavated and the entire floor plan was determined. It was clearly established that the unfortified castle-like complex was never used for defensive purposes.

The building is referred to as a "Romanesque hunting palace". The four-winged castle complex is the first of its kind in Germany at the beginning of the 13th century and indicates influences from the Mediterranean region. The owner was probably Margrave Dietrich of Meissen and the Ostmark, who had the hunting lodge built around 1210.
The findings prove that the hunting lodge was only used in the 13th century and was not destroyed by fire. Rather, it gradually fell into disrepair because it was no longer in use from the 14th century onwards. Today's building remains consist mainly of two 9.60 m high wall stumps and other wall remains.