Theater in the open air: Prince robbery opens up cultural hype in Hartenstein!

Theater in the open air: Prince robbery opens up cultural hype in Hartenstein!

Hartenstein, Deutschland - The Hartenstein Castle Ruin is currently becoming the setting for a unique theater event. On June 29, 2025, the play "Prinza robbery - a tragic game of fools" celebrates its premiere. It addresses the notorious kidnapping of Prince Ernst and Albrecht in 1455, which is a striking chapter in Saxon history. In this performance, the renowned theater author Ramona Markstein shows how the Junker Kunz von Kaufungen kidnapped the two prince from Altenburger Castle and thus triggered a sensational drama. [Blick] reports that the piece uses original texts and old traditions to bring history to life.

The performance takes place directly at one of the historical original locations, the Hartenstein Castle Ruin. This backdrop contributes to the authenticity of the event and makes the audience part of this historical story. With over 30 amateur actors from Hartenstein, Thierfeld and the surrounding villages, the cultural life of the region is brought into a new light. All three events were already sold out - proof of the great interest in the prince's robbery and the artistic performances on site.

cultural highlight in Hartenstein

The organization team, consisting of members from various clubs such as the Paul Fleming Association, the Hartenstein Castle Ruin, and the Hartenstein Culture Association, is entirely committed to dealing with this historical topic. According to [Hartenstein Castle Ruin], the team still needs support: citizens are invited to contribute actively or financially to implement this cultural highlights.

The play is an exciting addition to the Altenburg Festival, which begin only a week later. The players all come from Hartenstein, Thierfeld, Zschocken and the surrounding area and thus show how strongly community projects can shape the cultural identity of a region.

The story of the prince's robbery

But what is the background of this spectacular kidnapping? The Altenburger Prince's robbery, also known as a Saxon prince robbery, occurred on the night of July 7 to July 8, 1455. The Junker Kunz von Kauffungen had decided with his accomplices to kidnap the two young prince to put pressure on the Saxon Elector Friedrich the gentle mate. [Wikipedia] explains that the conflicts between Kunz and the Elector from the Saxon Brother War resulted from 1446 to 1451. Kunz had moved to war on the Elector's side, but had a strong motive to take revenge after he was forced to pay a high ransom because it was captured.

The kidnapping was achieved because the Elector was traveling at that time and a large part of his court was not present. Alarm was raised, but during this critical time the mayors in Zwickau and Chemnitz were not ready to pass on the warning. After the kidnapping, the plans start to move, and the prince was hidden in the "Prince Cave", while Kunz was later captured by buying and executed.

The exciting story and the new processing of events in Hartenstein not only attract historical enthusiasts, but also those who simply want to enjoy an entertaining evening in the open -air theater. At the same time, a special exhibition on the subject of "Prince's robbery" Hartenstein, which is open until November 2, can be seen in the local museum. In the authentic rooms, which were probably inhabited by Kunz, visitors can dive deep into history.

The connection between theater and historical culture creates a lively atmosphere and lets old stories bloom again. Whether as a viewer or active supporter: the prince's robbery and the artistic commitment in the region invite you to become part of a great cultural adventure!