Castles are known for their impressive architecture. The Bavarian landscape in particular boasts some magnificent examples : Neuschwanstein and Nymphenburg Castles are famous far beyond the state’s borders. But smaller castles are also worth a visit: Amerang Castle sits atop a steep, wooded hill in the Chiemgau region and is a perfect example of living history. It has been privately owned for centuries and is currently inhabited by the von Crailsheim family.
An almost circular castle
The most architecturally spectacular feature is its floor plan: The castle forms an almost perfect triangle, enclosing one of Germany’s most beautiful arcaded courtyards within. This three-story Renaissance courtyard, with its delicate colonnades, has an almost Mediterranean feel—something one would not necessarily expect in the hilly landscape of Upper Bavaria.
Although the triangular arcaded courtyard appears perfectly symmetrical at first glance, not a single angle in the castle is exactly right-angled. Neither in the 40 interior rooms nor in the arcaded courtyard! In the 16th century, the master builders had to construct the building with millimeter precision on the narrow rocky outcrop, which led to this “crooked” geometry. Moreover, a fortified past lies hidden behind the idyllic façade. Amerang once served to secure important trade routes between Salzburg and Munich.
Here’s what you can experience at Amerang Castle today
You can experience this special atmosphere especially during the castle concerts, which are famous far beyond the region. Here, the impressive acoustics of the open-air courtyard are put to use, and the setting feels like a real candlelight concert. You may even recognize this place from television: In 2019, Amerang Castle served as a filming location for the TV series Rosenheim Cops.
Otherwise, Amerang Castle is now a hotel, horse stud, and a unique event venue— take a look at the colorful event calendar for more information. If you’re interested in the castle’s history, you can also take a guided tour. There, you’ll experience the complex’s more than 1,000-year history, which spans from a medieval fortress to an elegant Renaissance castle and on to its current use as a cultural center and exclusive hotel.
