Nossen Castle

The impressive Nossen Castle complex rises on a rocky outcrop above the Freiberger Mulde. Immerse yourself in the mysterious history of the impressive Renaissance castle. The drawing “View of Nossen in Saxony with Castle and Bridge” (Kupferstichkabinett Berlin) shows you Caspar David Friedrich’s diverse artistic interests and his enthusiasm for the region.

Knight's castle, abbey seat, hunting lodge - behind the ancient walls of Nossen Castle lies a mysterious story. Built in the 12th century as a manor in central Saxony, August the Strong arranged for it to be converted into a travel and hunting lodge. Externally, Schloss Nossen presents itself as a witness to European high culture. Inside, on the other hand, the dark side of bygone times reveals itself: dark detention cells and medieval instruments of torture tell of cruel practices in the history of justice. Saxony's most famous mistress, Countess Cosel, was also a guest in Nossen when she was cared for here for a month in 1716 before she was banished to Stolpen Castle. In changing special exhibitions, guests of Schloss Nossen discover the moving history of the Saxon nobility.

In the castle, over 700 years of the Saxon noble family von Schönberg are explained, but also the importance of the castle as an official office in Saxony. The background and punishments of some of the “heavy boys” (robbers) of the Middle Ages can be read here. Children can watch a robber film. The connection between the castle and the Cistercian monastery Altzella is made clear.