The castle was originally commissioned by Count Georg II von Gleichen in 1550.
It replaced a former Benedictine monastery on the same site, repurposing some of the older structural elements.
Johann Sebastian Bach lived in Ohrdruf with his older brother Johann Christoph, who served as an organist at the local St. Michael's church during the castle's historical peak.
The 2013 fire destroyed the roof and several interior floors, leading to a decade-long restoration effort supported by federal and state heritage funds.
The castle is a landmark of the 'Gleichen' family, whose history is deeply intertwined with the development of the Gotha region.
Schloss Ehrenstein is a notable example of Thuringian Renaissance architecture located in Ohrdruf. Originally built as a castle in the 16th century, it served as the seat of the Counts of Gleichen. The structure underwent extensive expansion and modernization during the 17th century under the house of Saxe-Gotha. A devastating fire in 2013 severely damaged the building, necessitating a multi-year, large-scale reconstruction project. Visitors can currently explore the historical rooms and the restored museum exhibitions. The castle complex houses the local museum, which covers the regional history of Ohrdruf and the surrounding Thuringian Forest area. Its architectural profile is defined by its preserved Renaissance gables and the central courtyard layout. The castle grounds remain a focal point for civic and cultural life in the town.
From the center of the interior courtyard to capture the symmetry of the Renaissance gables.
Check the official municipal portal for current status, as certain interior wings may still rotate availability based on ongoing conservation.
Plan your visit to coincide with local town events, as the courtyard often hosts outdoor performances.
Do not overlook the smaller regional museum exhibits within the castle, which provide crucial context for the building's survival of the 2013 fire.
Closed on Mondays.
