Burg Lichtenfels

Burg Lichtenfels stands on a rocky spur above Dalwigksthal, where the Orke river enters the Örksche Schweiz. The heights give views over the wooded valley and the winding Orke. The site sits on the north-east spur of the Eisenberg, 383 metres above sea level. The first stone walls were raised in 1189 by Abbot Witukind of Corvey. After early destruction the present keep and walls were rebuilt between 1223 and 1230 by Abbot Hermann I. The fortress passed through many hands: Corvey Abbey pledged it to Count Adolf I of Waldeck in 1267. After fierce feuds the abbey finally ceded it to Count Otto I of Waldeck in 1297. The Nymmes family served as castle knights and later tenants of the surrounding lands. From 1413 the Dalwigk family made the castle their seat for generations. In the early 17th century the archbishops of Cologne claimed nearby villages, and the castle was damaged again before partial rebuilding in 1631. Today the restored walls house the Safe-com company. Visitors can walk the perimeter path for wide views of the Orke valley. Inside, modern offices occupy the former keep and outbuildings. The courtyard still shows traces of the medieval palace and chapel. Beyond the gate the path drops into the wooded gorge of the Wilde Aa. The contrast between medieval stone and modern glass makes the visit memorable.