Kohlstein Castle

Germany, Germany

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Kohlstein Castle (Burg Kohlstein) is a small and picturesque hill castle located in the village of Kohlstein near Gößweinstein in Bavaria’s Franconian Switzerland region.

Built around 1486, it is considered one of the youngest castles in the area and is known for its romantic setting atop a rocky outcrop surrounded by forests and limestone hills. The castle was originally owned by the Lords of Hirschaid and later came under the authority of the Bishopric of Bamberg.

It was damaged during the German Peasants’ War in 1525 and again during the Thirty Years’ War, but was rebuilt and renovated several times over the centuries. Much of the present structure, including its characteristic tower and residential building, dates from the 18th century. Today, Kohlstein Castle remains privately owned and is not open to visitors.