Kriebstein Castle

Majestically perched on a rocky spur above the Zschopau River, Kriebstein Castle is considered the most beautiful knight’s castle in Saxony. With its turrets, battlements, and rich history, it’s a true highlight for excursions – appealing to families, history buffs, and romantics alike.

Kriebstein Castle impresses from the outside with its commanding location above the river. Inside, visitors are welcomed by impressive museum rooms, a late medieval painted chapel, the legendary Kriebstein Room, and changing special exhibitions. Climbing the residential tower rewards you with a fantastic panoramic view of the hilly landscape of Central Saxony. Guided tours provide even deeper insights into the castle’s history – whether through the classic castle tour or a walk through the late Gothic roof structure.

Solve puzzles, explore, marvel – interactive scavenger hunt at the castle

A very special highlight for families is the interactive chase through the historic walls of Kriebstein Castle. Equipped with a tablet, you set off in small groups to track down a mysterious clock theft. The castle spirit leads you from room to room – from the treasure vault to the armory – challenging you with tricky puzzles and clever tasks.

The origins of Kriebstein Castle date back to the late 14th century: Starting in 1384, the von Beerwalde family had their residential and administrative seat built here. Just a few decades later, Hugold III of Schleinitz commissioned significant Gothic expansions – under the direction of Arnold von Westfalen, the architect of Albrechtsburg Castle in Meissen. These additions still define the appearance of the complex today.

In the 19th century, the castle was remodeled in the Neo-Gothic style by Carl Moritz Haenel. It was later owned by the von Arnim family before being expropriated in 1945. Since 1993, the Free State of Saxony has owned the castle, which has since been extensively restored and turned into a museum.

Kriebstein Castle is located in the municipality of Kriebstein in the district of Central Saxony – about 10 km southeast of Mittweida and around 30 km northwest of Chemnitz. The castle is easy to reach by both car and public transportation.

By car, take the A4 (exit Hainichen or Chemnitz-Ost) or the B169. Parking is available below the castle, and a short walk leads up to the entrance.

Kriebstein Castle is also accessible by public transport: From Mittweida or Waldheim train station, take the bus (e.g. line 658) to Kriebstein, Burgstraße. From there, it's a short walk through the village to the castle. The path uphill is well developed and leads through picturesque nature – perfect for a small outing with a historic destination.