Imagine a medieval castle plopped right in the middle of town—that’s Tharandt Castle (Burgruine Tharandt) for you. Built around 1206, the castle was intentionally constructed in a strong defensive place. Even still, Tharandt couldn’t avoid the dramatic fate of many castles: conflicts, fires, and centuries of relentless renovation. Now, Tharandt’s main attraction is strolling around the ruins rather than storming them. The castle’s heyday may be over, but it’s left behind enough charm—and rubble—to keep both history nerds and casual hikers content. And while it may not have the grandeur of, say,…
