Best castles around Pfofeld are found in the surrounding region of Bavaria, Germany, which features a variety of historical structures. This area is notable for its medieval castles, Baroque palaces, and significant Roman fortifications. The landscape offers a blend of historical exploration and natural settings. Visitors can discover sites ranging from ancient Roman forts to well-preserved castles and opulent residences.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Pfofeld.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Until 1789, Ellingen was the residence of the Land Commander of the Franconian Bailiwick of the Teutonic Order. The present palace complex, built from 1708 to around 1760, was preceded by several medieval buildings and a Renaissance structure. The current main building was constructed between 1717 and 1721 by the architect Franz Keller, based on plans by Wilhelm Heinrich Behringer under the direction of Karl Heinrich von Hornstein.
1
0
Since 1216, Ellingen belonged to the Teutonic Order and was the residence of the Land Commander of the Bailiwick of Franconia. It was the most powerful Bailiwick in the Teutonic Order and therefore the small town of Ellingen was once the centre of a wide-ranging territorial and economic power. However, at the time the current castle was built, the Teutonic Order had already developed into a supply institution for the lower nobility. In place of the current castle, there were various medieval predecessor buildings and a very representative Renaissance building. The current castle complex was built from 1708 and the late Gothic castle church was given a Baroque makeover. The huge main building was built between 1718 and 1720 under the architect Franz Keller. Ceiling paintings, wall panelling, floors and, above all, the stucco work by Franz Joseph Roth have been preserved from the interior. The colonnade in the inner courtyard is part of the renovations by the French architect Michel d'Ixnard and was rebuilt around 1775.
1
0
Very beautiful castle with many works of art
1
0
Spielberg Castle is an impressive architectural monument, a landmark of the old Gunzenhausen district, inspires the imagination and historical interest and presents itself as a site of modern art and culture. https://www.schlossspielberg.de/
7
0
The Wernfels Castle is always worth a hike, if only because of the breathtaking view that the very well-kept complex offers, in the complex there is a youth hostel with individual use, among other events for young and old. The castle has been renovated in a modern way and has the flair of the Middle Ages not lost.
7
0
Great photo spot on the way to the Allgäu
0
0
The region around Pfofeld offers a diverse range of historical fortifications. You can visit medieval castles like Wernfels Castle and Spielberg Castle, the opulent Baroque Ellingen Residence and Palace Park, and the significant Roman fortification, Biriciana Roman Fort (Kastell Weißenburg), which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Yes, several castles and historical sites in the area are family-friendly. Wernfels Castle, which operates as a youth hostel, offers a unique experience. The Ellingen Residence and Palace Park is great for strolls, and the North Gate of the Biriciana Roman Fort (Kastell Weißenburg) makes Roman history tangible for all ages. Ellingen Palace also offers cultural exhibitions.
The area around Pfofeld and its castles is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, mountain biking, and running. For example, there are routes like 'View of Brombachsee – View of the Great Brombach Lake loop from Pfofeld' for gravel biking, 'Great Brombach Lake – Großer Brombachsee loop from Thannhausen' for MTB, and 'Great Brombach Lake – Little Brombach Lake loop from Gunzenhausen (VGem)' for running. You can explore more options in the Gravel biking around Pfofeld, MTB Trails around Pfofeld, and Running Trails around Pfofeld guides.
Spring and summer are particularly beautiful times to visit. In springtime, the palace park at Ellingen Residence is known for a spectacular bloom of blue Siberian squills, creating a blue carpet of flowers. The warmer months also make it ideal for exploring the outdoor areas of the castles and combining visits with hiking or biking.
Yes, Ellingen Palace houses the Kulturzentrum Ostpreußen, offering exhibitions on East Prussian culture, including an amber exhibition and a giant moose. Spielberg Castle, a medieval structure, uniquely hosts a museum for contemporary art, blending ancient architecture with modern creativity.
Yes, Wernfels Castle is currently a youth hostel, offering a unique opportunity to experience a castle setting firsthand, even for an overnight stay. It has 200 beds across 66 rooms, with various facilities including dining and seminar rooms.
Parking facilities are generally available at the major sites. For instance, Ellingen Residence and Palace Park is listed as having parking. It's advisable to check specific castle websites for detailed parking information before your visit.
Yes, you can find dining options. Near Wernfels Castle, visitors can enjoy the Wernfelser Eis (ice cream) and the Pflugsmühler beer garden, as well as the Gasthaus Blumenthal. Ellingen Palace also features a beer garden and brewery, and the Ellingen Residence and Palace Park offers dining options.
The Biriciana Roman Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a crucial Roman troop location dating back to around 90 AD. Its reconstructed North Gate (Porta Decumana) vividly illustrates the monumental scale of Roman fortifications. The site also includes a Roman Museum and remnants of large thermal baths, offering deep insights into Roman history and daily life.
While specific public transport routes vary, the region is generally accessible. For detailed information on reaching Spielberg Castle, Wernfels Castle, Ellingen Residence, or Kastell Weißenburg by public transport, it's best to consult local transport schedules or the official websites of the respective attractions.
Yes, the region offers scenic views. For instance, the most beautiful view of Wernfels Castle is from the Burgweg in the direction of Theilenberg. The Biriciana Roman Fort is also located on a small hill, offering an imposing view.
The duration of your visit depends on the castle and your interest. For a site like the Ellingen Residence and Palace Park, you might spend a few hours exploring the opulent interiors and strolling through the 3-hectare park. For the Biriciana Roman Fort, including the museum and thermal baths, a half-day visit is recommended. If you plan to visit multiple sites, a full day or even a weekend would be ideal.


Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Pfofeld: