Castles around Aiterhofen are situated in the Lower Bavarian district of Straubing-Bogen, a region known for its historical sites. The area features a variety of historical castles, including moated structures and ducal residences. These sites offer insights into centuries of regional history and architectural development. Visitors can explore a range of castles, providing diverse historical perspectives.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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Mitterfels Castle Mitterfels was an important administrative and defensive center of the Counts of Bogen. It was first documented in 1194 under Berchtholdus de Mitterfels. In 1242, the castle, along with the rich Bogen inheritance, passed to the Wittelsbach dukes. In 1280, Mitterfels was already mentioned in the ducal urbar as a regional court. In the following centuries, Mitterfels was expanded into a stronghold and manned by guardians. Little is known about the medieval history of the castle; it was apparently spared from the Hussite invasions around 1400 because it was over-fortified. During the Lower Bavarian knightly revolts of the Böckler and Löwler families, Mitterfels always fought on the side of the territorial lords. In 1634, Mitterfels was captured by the Swedes. In 1742, the castle was unsuccessfully besieged by Trenck the Pandur during the War of the Austrian Succession. Mitterfels lost all military importance in the 19th century, and its defensive structures gradually fell into disrepair. In 1812, the keep collapsed. Around 2000, the dilapidated medieval remains were excavated and secured with funds from the Free State of Bavaria. The castle lies at the end of a long mountain spur overlooking the Menach or Perlbach valley. The path to the castle leads over a three-arched bridge made of rubble and brick, which crosses the deep moat. According to an inscription, the bridge dates from 1791. The entrance to the inner castle was the keep, made of humped ashlars, which, judging by historical illustrations, also served as a gate tower. Today, most of the remains are covered by a prison. Adjacent to the keep stands the most clearly visible part of the medieval castle today: the high shield wall. To the left of the entrance area lies the stump of a wall tower and the Pflegschloss (Peasant Castle) and courthouse, which dates back to the 18th century and replaced the palace. Today, the town hall is housed there. Walking past the Pflegschloss, you descend over the former wall of the inner castle to a terrace in front. There you will find the castle's most impressive structure: the surrounding moat with its protruding round wall towers. This elaborate defensive structure probably dates back to the 15th century and was equipped with numerous loopholes. Source: www.burgenseite.de
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Impressive and worth seeing castle 🏰 in Straubing
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Mitterfels Castle is beautifully situated. You can be in the Perlbach Valley in no time. In summer there are regular events in the courtyard.
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It is a two-hinged arch bridge with a width of 18.28 meters, a span between the abutments of 92.9 meters and a span of the arches of 91.50 meters. The roadway is 8.50 meters wide. On both sides there are footpaths and cycle paths that are 4.61 meters wide. The abutments are massive reinforced concrete structures, each with an 8-meter-wide flood opening. The vertical steel arches have riveted box sections in hat profile with a width of 0.86 meters and a height of 1.30 to 1.80 meters. They are connected to each other by eight riveted bars. The orthotropic steel roadway slab is supported over the arches with 12 hangers[1]. The diameter of the hangers is 150 millimeters and their spacing is 6 meters. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schlo%C3%9Fbr%C3%BCcke_(Straubing)
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Large ducal castle in Straubing with a beautiful depiction of Christopher on the outside.
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Great hiking trails around the castle
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From the Kreutzhaus hiking car park there is a beautiful circular hiking trail to the castle. Very idyllic!
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The region boasts several castles with rich histories. Ducal Castle Straubing, built in 1356, features one of Germany's largest and best-preserved medieval ballrooms. Irlbach Castle dates back to 1569 and is exceptionally well-preserved. Additionally, Schambach Castle is a moated complex built in the 16th century on much older foundations.
Yes, both Ducal Castle Straubing and Mitterfels Castle are categorized as family-friendly. The Ducal Castle offers a glimpse into medieval life, while Mitterfels Castle is often part of a scenic circular hiking trail, making it a good option for an outing with children.
The castles around Aiterhofen showcase diverse architectural styles. Schambach Castle is a notable moated complex with corner towers and arcades. Mitterfels Castle is uniquely integrated into a bridge. Even the historically significant Schloss Geltolfing, though now residential, features an arcaded courtyard and Baroque elements, reflecting centuries of transformation from its original moated design.
Access varies by castle. While Ducal Castle Straubing is largely restored and used by tax authorities, its knight's hall is a significant feature. Irlbach Castle, despite being well-preserved, generally does not offer access to its garden or building. Schloss Geltolfing is now primarily a residential complex, limiting public interior access.
Yes, the region offers various hiking trails. For instance, a beautiful circular hiking trail leads to Mitterfels Castle from the Kreutzhaus hiking car park. You can find more hiking routes in the area by exploring the Hiking around Aiterhofen guide.
There are several cycling options. For road cyclists, routes like the 'Oberalteich Church – Steinach Castle loop' are available. Gravel biking enthusiasts can enjoy trails such as the 'Danube Cycle Path – Straubing Market Square loop' or the 'Falkenfels Castle loop'. For detailed routes, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Aiterhofen and Gravel biking around Aiterhofen guides.
The spring and autumn months generally offer pleasant weather for exploring the castles and surrounding areas, with comfortable temperatures for walking and cycling. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially for outdoor activities, but may be warmer. Winter visits might be limited by access to some sites or weather conditions, though some castles remain accessible.
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and architectural beauty of the castles. The well-preserved nature of sites like Irlbach Castle and the impressive knight's hall at Ducal Castle Straubing are frequently mentioned. The scenic integration of castles like Mitterfels Castle into the landscape also draws positive feedback, especially for those combining castle visits with outdoor activities.
Ducal Castle Straubing is particularly known for the Agnes Bernauer Festival, which is performed in its courtyard every four years, commemorating a significant historical event linked to the castle.
Many castles offer picturesque scenes. Ducal Castle Straubing, especially from the river bridge, provides a beautiful sight. Mitterfels Castle is also noted for its scenic location. The blend of historical architecture and natural surroundings makes for excellent photo opportunities across the region.
Schloss Geltolfing, located in the Geltolfing district of Aiterhofen, has a history dating back to the 11th century. Originally a moated complex on an artificial island, it underwent significant Baroque redesigns in the 18th century, transforming it into the castle seen today with an arcaded courtyard. While now largely residential, its architectural evolution and historical significance are notable. More details can be found on Wikipedia.


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