New lookout tower at Wehlen Castle: Panoramic view over the Elbe!

The Kehlen Castle, which is considered the third oldest medieval castle complex in Saxony, has a long and eventful history. It was founded around 1200 and first mentioned in 1269. Since its foundation, the castle has experienced several changes of ownership and a significant decline, especially from 1547 when it was no longer inhabited. Elector August even passed the remains of the castle on to local cities as building materials in 1550, which harmed its substance enormously. Probably due to this turbulence, it is a real feat that Burgfreunde has been working on the revival of the ruins that had previously grown greatly.

The new tower: a modern landmark

The new tower was built on the foundations of an old defensive tower, with the modern facade of a cube made of red -brown perforated sheet. Architect Michael Hamann from the Pirna architectural community MM + H has created a clear distinction between the new and historical building fabric with this draft. The cubic structures are illuminated at night, the light shines out through the perforated plate, which gives the tower a special charm.

However, there are also critical voices. Some Wehlener and members of the castle friends express the desire for a historicizing building that is more oriented towards the past of the castle. Mayor Thomas Mathe emphasizes that the project is not concerned with the reconstruction of the historical castle complex, but a contemporary addition. The monument protection authority has already requested a clear line so that the new building is clearly separated from the historical elements of the castle.

costs and financing

The costs for the new construction of the tower amount to almost half a million euros, with 470,000 euros from funding from the Free State of Saxony. In addition, the city of Wehlen has developed an adventure path for children on the castle complex with EU funding, which will bring other visitors to history and nature in the future.

The tower will be open around the clock, which enables visitors to take a look at the impressive landscape at any time. It is free to enter the new attraction, and the anticipation of the opening is already increasing. The mountain landscape and the Elbe, which framed the castle so picturesque, make the experience unforgettable and invite you to discover and linger.

Burg Wehlen is not only a historical site, but also a symbol of revival and local identity. The efforts to maintain and restore the inheritance show that in Wehlen a good hand is being developed for the future and the history of your city.