Wachenburg

Perched majestically atop the Wachenberg hill, the Wachenburg castle overlooks the charming town of Weinheim in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Built in the style of a Romanesque hilltop fortress, this architectural marvel was constructed between 1907 and 1928 by the Weinheimer Senioren-Convent (WSC), a student corps association. The Wachenburg, along with the medieval Windeck castle ruins, bestows upon Weinheim the endearing nickname Two-Castle Town.

The Location of Wachenburg

Situated at an elevation of 330 meters above sea level, the Wachenburg rests on the western spur of the Wachenberg, which itself rises to 400 meters. Nestled within the picturesque Neckartal-Odenwald Nature Park, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Odenwald forest and the Upper Rhine Plain. Visitors can reach the castle either by car or by embarking on a scenic hike. The trail begins in Weinheim, meanders through the Windeck castle ruins, and ascends to the Wachenburg, continuing further into the verdant hills of the nature park. The hike, though moderately challenging, rewards adventurers with stunning vistas and a sense of historical immersion.

The History of Wachenburg

The origins of the Wachenburg are deeply intertwined with the memory of those who fell during the Franco-Prussian War. Initially, there were efforts to create a memorial for the fallen members of the WSC. This idea evolved into establishing a meeting place for the annual gatherings of the WSC. In 1896, the Windeck castle ruins seemed a fitting location for this dual purpose. However, plans were thwarted when the Grand Duke of Baden sold the ruins to Count von Berckheim, who prohibited any new constructions.

Undeterred, the WSC turned its attention to the Wachenberg. In 1903, plans emerged to build an observation tower with a shelter. Through negotiations involving the city of Weinheim, the WSC, and the municipality of Leutershausen, a 99-year lease agreement was signed. This contract obligated the WSC to construct a castle and included an option for an additional 99-year lease.

In 1906, an architectural design by Arthur Wienkoop was selected from 14 submissions, allowing the construction to proceed in phases. Wienkoop, along with Aute Bode and Emil Hartmann, all honored as citizens of Weinheim, played pivotal roles in the castle's creation. Construction commenced in early 1907, with the foundation stone for the Hall of Honor and the festival grounds laid on May 16, 1907. The castle's keep was inaugurated on May 31, 1908, and by May 1913, the main building, known as the Palas, was completed. However, the Fuchsenkeller, located within the Palas, remained unfinished for some time.

Funding for the Wachenburg's construction came exclusively from donations. In 1928, electric lighting was installed, although the grand hall continued to be illuminated by candlelight until 1959. The road leading up to the castle was constructed between 1929 and 1934. Following the forced dissolution of the WSC in 1938, ownership of the Wachenburg transferred to the city of Weinheim. It was returned to the WSC in 1950 upon its reestablishment. The city of Weinheim withdrew from the lease agreement with Leutershausen in 1956.

In 1949, the Wachenburg hosted the founding of the Federation of European Youth, now known as the Young European Federalists, who saw European integration as a beacon of hope in the post-war era. In 1963, the Hall of Honor was expanded to include memorial plaques for corps students who perished in World War II, based on plans by Wilhelm Gottsauner. The WSC purchased the Wachenburg grounds from Leutershausen in 1965.

From 2009 to 2013, the Wachenburg underwent extensive renovations, costing over one million euros. During this period, the castle was also connected to Weinheim's sewer system in 2010. Today, the Wachenburg remains a vibrant venue for the WSC's annual meetings, held each Ascension Day weekend.

The Structure of Wachenburg

The Wachenburg is a fully intact castle complex, comprising several buildings:

• The gatehouse, known as the Wappentor
• The keep, standing approximately 34 meters tall and featuring an observation platform
• The castle courtyard
• The castle tavern
• The three-story main building, or Palas

The Palas houses various event spaces, including the grand hall, the refectory, the chapter hall, and the Fuchsenkeller. While the Palas is generally accessible only to WSC members and used for events, it is open to the public on specific dates announced on the castle's website. The courtyard, tavern, and observation platform are freely accessible to all visitors.

On the keep's roof, UKW transmission antennas of Deutsche Telekom broadcast the ROCK FM program on the 107.7 MHz frequency with a power output of 100 watts. The castle's name also graces the title of the WSC's journal, Die Wachenburg.

In conclusion, the Wachenburg is more than just a historical monument; it is a testament to resilience, memory, and the enduring spirit of camaraderie. Its walls echo with stories of the past, inviting visitors to explore and connect with the rich tapestry of history that shaped this remarkable edifice. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a scenic adventure, the Wachenburg promises an unforgettable experience.