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Germany

Lichtenberg Castle (Salzgitter)

12th-century hill castle ruins in Germany

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Lichtenberg Castle, located in the Lichtenberge hills near Salzgitter in Lower Saxony, Germany, is a significant archaeological site representing medieval military architecture. Constructed in the 12th century, the castle served as a strategic fortification for the Welf dynasty under Duke Henry the Lion. It features a classic hill castle design with defensive structures such as moats, bastions, and towers. The site also included domestic features like a palas, and a well for water management. The castle underwent expansion between 1170 and 1180 CE and played a crucial role in regional power struggles, including conflicts with the Hohenstaufen dynasty. The castle was ultimately destroyed in 1552 by the artillery of Count Vollrad's army, marking the end of its active use. Archaeological interest in the site persists, with preservation efforts highlighting its historical significance.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Lichtenberg Castle (Salzgitter)

FileBurg_Lichtenberg_Salzgitter.jpg
FileBurg_lichtenberg.jpg
FileLichtenberg_Burg_Gesamt.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

CastlesMoatsBastionsTowersRamparts

Military Installations

Siege Equipment

Water Management Features

Wells

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Palaces

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Germany
Source
Wikipedia