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Renovation of the Felsenburg Neurathen: Two million euros for security!
The Neurathen rock castle in Saxon Switzerland urgently needs renovations. Costs: approx. 2 million euros.
Renovation of the Felsenburg Neurathen: Two million euros for security!
The Neurathen rock castle, proudly enthroned above the Elbe valley in the picturesque Elbe Sandstone Mountains, is facing an important chapter in its history. How MDR According to reports, around two million euros have been budgeted for the necessary renovation of the largest weir system in Saxon-Bohemian Switzerland. People have already written a lot of history here - the first documented mention goes back to the year 1289.
In order to keep the important castle complex accessible to visitors in the future, the corresponding financial resources must be anchored in the Saxon state budget. The plan is to work on the renovation with specialists who know the region. In the past, good experiences have already been gained with projects such as the Schwedenlochen.
Safety concerns and usage
The Felsenburg Neurathen is open all year round, but the entire area was closed in autumn 2023 for safety reasons. Rusty bridge structures are no longer load-bearing, which is the responsibility of the Free State after the municipality of Lohmen terminated the lease agreement. The castle is usually reached via the Bastei, with the entrance being right next to the famous Bastei Bridge.
A look at the fascinating remains of the castle shows that it was largely made of wood. Only a few structures remain, including knocked-out rooms and the cistern. Archaeological investigations have been carried out since 1906, with the last excavations taking place between 1982 and 1984. Parts of the castle were uncovered and reconstructed as an open-air museum.
A glimpse into history
The rock castle is not only an attraction for tourists, but also an important part of the regional cultural history. Over the centuries, the castle changed hands several times and looks back on turbulent times, including conflicts and sieges. From its construction in the 13th century to its tourist development in the late 18th century, it has weathered many storms and is now a popular day trip destination.
Visitors can discover impressive relics on their tour, such as the catapult-like slingshot that once fired stone balls weighing more than 50 kg to ward off attackers. These historical treasures are not only impressive, they also tell the history and importance of Neurathen in the regional context. For many, it is the direct access to the lively stories of bygone eras that gives the rock castle its charm.
The entire complex, including the battlements and cisterns, was partially restored in the 20th century to give the public a sense of its former splendor. A visit to the Neurathen rock castle is not only an interesting excursion, but also a piece of time travel into the past of Saxon Switzerland. If you would like to find out more about the history, you will find an informative brochure at the cash desk and in the Lohmen tourist information center for just €3.00.
As the renovation plans progress, those responsible hope that Neurathen will soon shine in new splendor and that its history will continue to be accessible for generations. So we remain excited to see what the future holds for this impressive fortification!