Best castles around Pfeffenhausen offer insights into the region's historical past. The area features various historical sites, including several notable "Schlösser" (castles or palaces) within the municipality and its immediate vicinity. These structures provide glimpses into centuries of local history and architecture. Visitors can explore a range of historical fortifications and structures in this area.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
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Weihenstephan Palace was first documented in 1229. For a long time, it formed a royal estate. The current Baroque complex was built in the 17th century on the site of a previous structure. The residential building was added in the 18th century. The palace is now owned by the Counts Deroy von Fürstenberg. Across the street, north of the palace, is the Baroque palace chapel, dedicated to Saint Sebastian. It was built in the mid-17th century.
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This little idyll can be found in the small town of Train. More information about the moated castle: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Train
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Weihenstephan Castle Weihenstephan Castle was first mentioned in documents in 1229. For a long time it was a manor. The current complex was built in the 17th century by Georg Carl Freiherr von Etzdorf on Weihenstephan and Stamsried on the site of a previous building. The residential building was built in the 18th century. In 1837 Count Philipp Aloys Erasmus von Deroy bought Weihenstephan Castle with Deutenkofen and two breweries from the Barons of Etzdorf. When the heiress Odette Countess Deroy married Friedrich Freiherr von Fürstenberg, her son, Joseph Erwein (1908–1977), was elevated to Count von Deroy, Freiherr von Fürstenberg, in 1914 and inherited Weihenstephan. In August 2006, the castle's outbuildings burned down and some of them had to be demolished as a result. The damage was probably caused by a defect in an electrical system and amounted to around one million euros. Weihenstephan Castle is a baroque complex with a moat running all around it from the 17th century, which was changed in the 18th century and possibly later. The residential building is a two-story mansard hipped roof building with elaborately designed shutters. The surrounding farm buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries are essentially divided into a north and east wing. In the north wing there is a passageway that is in line with the portal of the residential building. A little to the east of the castle, on the old road towards Landshut, there are two massive gate pavilions, also with mansard hipped roofs, which were built in 1950. On the opposite side of the street, north of the castle, is the baroque castle chapel, which is dedicated to Saint Sebastian. It was built in the middle of the 17th century. The small, north-facing hall church with a rectangular floor plan is divided on the outside by pilasters. The portal on the south side is distinguished by flanking pilasters. In the middle of the hipped roof is a ridge turret with an onion dome. The interior is spanned by a flat ceiling and also divided by pilasters. The chapel now serves exclusively as a mortuary; the associated cemetery extends around the nearby branch church of St. Stephan. Source: www.wikipedia.de
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Kirchberg-Hohenthann Castle In a document from Mallersdorf Monastery, a Count Arterius I is mentioned in Kirchberg as early as 812. However, the castle is said to have been founded as a Roman fortress as early as 292 - at a time from which there are no documents or other written evidence. After the Counts of Kirchberg died out in 1234, the county became a district court of the Duchy of Bavaria-Landshut. The ducal guardian resided in Kirchberg Castle and was responsible for administration and justice in his district. The most important places of the Kirchberg district court, which belonged to the Landshut Revenue Office, were the markets of Pfaffenberg and Geiselhöring. The three-winged complex from the second half of the 15th century was expanded in 1520 and 1569. The castle was destroyed in the Landshut War of Succession in 1504 and the Thirty Years' War in 1632 and then rebuilt in the Baroque style. In 1803, the Kirchberg district court was moved to Pfaffenberg. The castle was purchased in 1807 by a family who used it for agricultural purposes. The castle, now a palace, was purchased and restored by two Munich families in 1978. The owners received the Monument Prize from the Hypo Cultural Foundation Munich for the restoration of the castle in the 1990s. The current complex was built in the 14th century by the Lords of Kirchberg and has a circular brick moat wall. The keep has a base area of 10 by 10.5 meters and a wall thickness of three meters. The castle chapel of St. Leonhard is located in the keep's basement. Source: www.wikipedia.de
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The region around Pfeffenhausen features a variety of historical castles and structures. You can find unique moated castles, such as Train Moated Castle, which stands out from more common hill or rock castles. There are also historical complexes like Kirchberg Castle, dating back to the 14th century with a circular brick moat wall, and Baroque structures like Weihenstephan Castle.
Yes, several castles offer distinct architectural styles. Train Moated Castle is a prime example of a moated castle, a less common type in the area. Oberlauterbach Water Castle, though not a highlight in this guide, is known for its charming Italian-style inner courtyard. Kirchberg Castle features a notable circular brick moat wall and a keep with thick walls.
Several castles in the region have endured significant historical events. Niederhornbach Castle, for instance, was burned down during the Thirty Years' War in 1648 and later rebuilt. Similarly, Oberlauterbach Water Castle also suffered destruction in the Thirty Years' War before its reconstruction in 1663. Kirchberg Castle was destroyed in the Landshut War of Succession in 1504 and again in the Thirty Years' War, subsequently rebuilt in the Baroque style.
Yes, there are options suitable for families. The Schlossgarten Ratzenhofen Beer Garden, which incorporates castle elements, is listed as family-friendly and offers a pleasant setting with good food and drinks, and sometimes live music. Train Moated Castle is also considered family-friendly, offering an interesting historical site to explore. Offenstetten Castle (Cabrini House) is also listed as family-friendly.
Yes, Offenstetten Castle (Cabrini House) is listed as wheelchair accessible. This moated castle now serves as a facility for children and young people with special educational needs, and its current use reflects its accessibility.
The area around Pfeffenhausen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, gravel biking, and road cycling. These routes often pass by or near historical sites and natural features, allowing you to enjoy both the cultural heritage and the scenic landscape.
Yes, there are several hiking trails in the vicinity. For example, you can find easy to moderate routes like the 'Fairy Tale Pond loop from Pfeffenhausen' or the 'Pöllinger Weiher – Fairy Tale Pond loop from Pfeffenhausen'. These trails offer a chance to explore the natural surroundings while being close to the historical sites. You can find more options in the Hiking around Pfeffenhausen guide.
Visiting during spring, summer, or early autumn generally offers the most pleasant experience. The weather is usually mild, making it ideal for exploring the castle grounds and combining your visit with outdoor activities like hiking or cycling. The Schlossgarten Ratzenhofen Beer Garden is particularly enjoyable on sunny days.
Yes, the Schlossgarten Ratzenhofen Beer Garden is a popular spot, known for its beautiful setting with old chestnut trees and a wide selection of food and drinks. It's a great place to relax after exploring. For other castles, you might find local cafes or pubs in the nearby towns and villages.
Visitors appreciate the historical insights and the unique character of the castles. The Train Moated Castle is often highlighted as a personal favorite due to its distinctive design. The Schlossgarten Ratzenhofen Beer Garden is loved for its ambiance, good food, and family-friendly atmosphere.
While the castles themselves are the main attractions, the surrounding rural landscape offers pleasant views. Many of the nearby hiking and cycling routes, such as those found in the Hiking around Pfeffenhausen guide, will lead you through scenic areas with natural features and occasional panoramic viewpoints.
Public transport options in rural areas like Pfeffenhausen can be limited. While some larger towns may have bus connections, reaching individual castles often requires a car or combining public transport with cycling or walking. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific routes to the nearest villages.


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