Imperial Castle Nuremberg – Landmark of the City

The Nuremberg Imperial Castle is located on a small sandstone ridge and overlooks Sebald’s old town and the craftsmen’s quarter of Nuremberg. It forms part of the city fortifications and borders on the Neutorgraben and the Vestnertorgraben. The first written mention of the castle can only be found in documents from 1105, when King Henry V was able to conquer the fortifications. In the next 500 years, the castle was of enormous importance, because all emperors and kings of the Holy Roman Empire spent their time here, at least for a short time. It can be assumed that the castle had even existed a good 100 years earlier. Archaeological investigations have also provided evidence that there are also earlier buildings below the castle, which can be dated to before 1000 AD.

The history of Nuremberg Castle

After the conquest of the castle by King Henry V, it was owned by the Salians for a little more than 100 years. In 1138, however, it was lost to the Swabian rulers. Under this reign, the importance of the castle grew massively. Numerous reconstruction measures were accompanied by a restructuring of the surrounding county. The decline of the Hohenstaufen dynasty brought with it renewed battles for the castle and changing owners, until the castle had finally lost its importance in the 16th century. Nevertheless, some other important episodes in the history of the castle should be mentioned. During the Thirty Years’ War, for example, an unsuccessful siege of Nuremberg and the castle took place. At the beginning of the 19th century, Nuremberg Castle was handed over to the Kingdom of Bavaria, which in turn had to give up control of the castle after a defeat by the Prussians. Damage caused to the castle during the two world wars has now been restored, so that the castle has become a popular destination for tourists.

Important buildings of Nuremberg Castle

On a tour of the castle, you will encounter all kinds of historical buildings. The imperial chapel dates from the early 13th century. This is impressively enthroned on an elevation and contributes significantly to the imposing image of Nuremberg Castle. Here, among other things, an altar with Veit Stoss ́ crucifix can be visited. The fortifications of the castle are also impressive. In the 16th century, these were strengthened: three bastions were built for this purpose. Its massive walls were primarily intended to provide protection against the increasingly advanced artillery. The so-called imperial stables are also interesting. This is a two-storey building, which has five attics on top of each other, which probably served as granaries. The ground floor housed the imperial stables. However, it is worth mentioning that the building visible today is a reconstruction from the 20th century, as it was completely destroyed in the Second World War. Today there is a youth hostel in the stables. The Luginsland Towers and the Pentagonal Tower are also eye-catching buildings of Nuremberg Castle. These give a good feeling about how the castle must have looked in its heyday. Above all, their architectural peculiarities are of great interest. The biggest highlight of the tour, however, is certainly the Palas with the imperial apartments. Large halls and living rooms can be visited here.

Exhibitions in the Imperial Castle Nuremberg

The castle houses a branch of the Germanic National Museum. Original exhibits from the weapon collection of Nuremberg Castle are presented here. In addition to weapons, armor and riding gear, astronomical measuring instruments and everyday objects are also on display. The permanent exhibition “Emperor – Empire – City” is also housed in the Imperial Castle. Here, the exhibition objects are used to explain the functioning of the city of Nuremberg in the period from the Middle Ages to modern times.

The history of the Imperial Castle

The Imperial Castle, whose origins date back to the 11th century, was one of the most important castles of the Holy Roman Empire during the Middle Ages.
It served as a residence for German kings and emperors and was a symbolic center of imperial power.
In the 13th century, Nuremberg was elevated to the status of an imperial city, and the castle became one of the central places for imperial diets and court days.
During the Second World War, the Imperial Castle was badly damaged, but in the post-war years, extensive restoration ensured that the castle shines in its historic glory.
Today, it is a popular tourist destination and a place where the history of the Middle Ages comes alive.

Important sights of the Imperial Castle

The Imperial Castle consists of several important buildings and areas to discover:

1. The Palas

The Palas, the main building of the castle, served as the residence of the kings and emperors.
Inside, there are now several rooms that can be visited, including the Knights’ Hall and the Emperor’s Hall.
The exhibition in the Palas offers a deep insight into life at court and the history of the Holy Roman Empire.

2. The Double Chapel

The double chapel of St. Margaretha is another highlight of the castle.
It is divided into two floors – the lower floor for the people and the upper floor for the nobility and the emperor.
The Romanesque architecture and well-preserved decorations make the chapel an architectural masterpiece.

3. The Sinwell Tower

The Sinwell Tower, an imposing round tower, is the tallest structure in the Imperial Castle.
Visitors can climb the tower and enjoy a magnificent view of the city of Nuremberg and the surrounding area from the observation deck.
In the Middle Ages, the tower served as a watchtower and protection against enemy attacks.

4. The Deep Well

The Deep Fountain is one of the most impressive technical achievements of the Imperial Castle.
With a depth of about 50 meters, it was vital for the water supply of the castle inhabitants during the sieges.
A guided tour allows a fascinating look into the depths of the fountain and the medieval technology behind it.

5. The Castle Garden

The castle garden, which surrounds the Imperial Castle, is a beautiful place to relax and offers a green oasis above the rooftops of the city, especially in spring and summer.
The gardens are freely accessible and offer picturesque views of Nuremberg.

Opening hours and admission prices

The Imperial Castle is open all year round, but opening hours may vary depending on the season:

• Summer (April to September): 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Winter (October to March): 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Admission to the Imperial Castle includes access to the main buildings, the museum, and the Sinwell Tower:

• Adults: 7 EUR
• Concessions (pupils, students, seniors): 6 EUR
• Children (under 18 years): free admission

In addition, there are special combination tickets that include admission to the Imperial Castle and other sights in Nuremberg.

Guided tours and special exhibitions

For visitors who want to learn more about the history of the Imperial Castle, guided tours are regularly offered in several languages.
These tours offer more in-depth information about the architecture, political events and life at the castle.
The Museum of the Imperial Castle also has special exhibitions that deal with various aspects of medieval life and Nuremberg’s role in the Holy Roman Empire.
These exhibitions are a must, especially for history buffs.

Tips for visitors

• Best time to visit: Early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
• View over Nuremberg: The Sinwell Tower offers the best view over the city – well worth the climb!
• Culinary tip: Combine a visit to the castle with a walk through the old town and try Nuremberg specialties such as the famous grilled sausages.