Lindelbrunn was originally not on our itinerary. However, as we drove through the area we saw it and decided to detour to it after setting up at a campground for the coming night.
Parking is below the hill and you must hike to the top. It is not a bad hike as can be seen in the photo below, and the trail is well-marked. Because of the panoramic view from on top, a visit to this castle is well worth it.
These photos were taken in 2008.
Lindelbrunn, also known as Lindelbol or Lindelborn, was started in the 12th century as a fortification to support the Holy Roman Empire. The House of Lindelboller died out in the 1270s, and in 1274 the castle came in possession of the powerful Leiningen family. For several hundred years the castle was parceled out for part ownership to other families, so that by the 15th century families began to argue over possession of the property and the taxes it controlled. In 1440, troops from the Elector Palatinate and the Bishop of Speyer besieged the castle for seven weeks but could not take it. Ownership disputes were finally resolved by Bernhard von Leiningen and Friedrich von Bitsch, who became sole owners. When the Reformation came, militia of peasants accomplished what previous professional soldiers could not. They seized the castle in 1525 and burned it. The castle was abandoned as not worth rebuilding and the site fell into decay.
Above and left, two views of the castle as you wind your way up the trail. The walls are largely authentic but some of the windows have been reconstructed.
Below, a diagram of the castle seen at the site.
Below, a major portion of the castle seen from below. This section corresponds to item #4 on the diagram. This would be the outer wall of the residential section.
Left, the trail as it nears the top.
Below, a portion of original steps leading to the main gate. The groove in the center appears of recent origin as a way to sluice water so it would not cascade over the steps and wear them away.
Left, a portion of the palas... at least what is left of it. Lindelbrunn did not have much left at the site. However, you can still discern the nature of the ruins and purpose. Also, the view from above was incredible!
Railings are used to protect visitors at the site. Though somewhat remote, we did encounter a few people there.
