In old times higher nobility resided in Rochlitz Palacewhere today concerts, cultural events, seminars and simply play and fun attract lots of visitors.

The palace was mentioned for the first time in 995. Over the centuries it was continually subject to architectural changes and enlargements. Between 1537 and 1547 it was widow seat of Duchess Elisabeth and some 50 years later that of Electress Sophia. During Thirty Years War the palace was conquered by the Swedes and looted. Later in 1717 the decline of Rochlitz Palace started. From 1852 onwards it was used for the following 40 years as detention centre.

The castle kitchen dates back to the 14th century and imparts with its stack vaults and wine cellars very vividly how life has been in the palace during later medieval times.

More information (also in Czesky and Polski): http://www.schloesserland-sachsen.de/en/palaces_castles_and_gardens/palaces/rochlitz_castle/

Photo: Igor Plotnikov/Shutterstock