burgplatz
1 / 10

Dankwarderode Castle

4.4
·328 reviews·Braunschweig, Germany

Reconstructed 12th-century castle housing medieval art and the original Brunswick Lion monument.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
burgplatz

Dankwarderode Castle

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Reconstructed 12th-century castle housing medieval art and the original Brunswick Lion monument.

4.4
(328 reviews)

"A great place with a welcoming atmosphere! The service was smooth, and everything felt thoughtfully arranged."

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Allow for a short visit

The exhibition is in one hall, perfect for a quick 30-min historical immersion.

🦁 See the original Lion

Don't miss the original Brunswick Lion monument displayed inside the castle.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Medieval Art Collection

Medieval Art Collection

Interior Exhibition Hall

Discover Gothic and Romanesque tapestries, altar pieces, and paintings from the Middle Ages.

The Brunswick Lion

The Brunswick Lion

Interior Exhibition Hall

See the original Brunswick Lion monument, a symbol of the city's rich history.

Castle Architecture

Castle Architecture

Exterior

Admire the impressive reconstructed 12th-century architecture of Dankwarderode Castle.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for History Buffs

Dankwarderode Castle, a reconstructed 12th-century gem, houses medieval artifacts. Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the historical exhibits. Consider checking for special tower climb days for panoramic views of Braunschweig.

Understand the Exhibition Space

While the castle's exterior is imposing, the interior exhibition space is compact, focusing on a single hall of Gothic and Romanesque art. Plan for a shorter visit, around 30 minutes, to see the tapestries, altar pieces, and the original Brunswick Lion.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Potential tower climbs
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Braunschweig 🦁 , Deutschland 🇩🇪 Braunschweig, also known as Brunswick, is a city in north-central Germany. On Burgplatz square, Dankwarderode Castle has art from the Middle Ages. Across the square stands the Brunswick Lion monument and Romanesque-style Brunswick Cathedral. The Braunschweigisches Landesmuseum showcases local history. The neoclassical Brunswick Palace, rebuilt in the 2000s, is topp...
nature_musafir
10 likes • 1.2K views

⏳ Allow for a short visit

The exhibition is in one hall, perfect for a quick 30-min historical immersion. Reddit

🦁 See the original Lion

Don't miss the original Brunswick Lion monument displayed inside the castle. Reddit

The heart of Braunschweig (Brunswick) - the castle Dankwarderode and the Cathedral. Both were built in the 12th century under the reign of Henry the Lion. 🦁 Henry the Lion was married to Mathilda, Princess of England, daughter of Eleanor of Aquitaine and King Henry II and sister of Richard the Lionheart. I am currently exploring the various royal connections between England and Germany and love...
1000backyards
8 likes • 222 views

⬆️ Check for tower climbs

On select days, you can climb the tower for amazing city views. Reddit

🧐 Look for small details

The architecture has many intricate details; take your time to appreciate them. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow for a short visit

The exhibition is in one hall, perfect for a quick 30-min historical immersion. Reddit

🦁 See the original Lion

Don't miss the original Brunswick Lion monument displayed inside the castle. Reddit

⬆️ Check for tower climbs

On select days, you can climb the tower for amazing city views. Reddit

🧐 Look for small details

The architecture has many intricate details; take your time to appreciate them. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(328 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Dankwarderode Castle for its historical significance and impressive architecture, particularly the original Brunswick Lion. The compact exhibition is appreciated for its focused display of medieval art, though some note the small exhibition space. The welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to climb the tower for views are also highlighted as positive aspects.

"A great place with a welcoming atmosphere! The service was smooth, and everything felt thoughtfully arranged. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning, it offers a consistently enjoyable experience👌"

Bubi İYİKUL

"This area is just wonderful, worth to walk around, sit somewhere on the traditional sitting banks. On some days you are allowed to climb the tower to enjoy an excellent view."

suresh subramaniya suresh

"One of my favorite places where you can feel the weight of history."

Berry Tang

What People Like

Historical significance
Original Brunswick Lion
Impressive architecture

What People Dislike

Small exhibition space

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dankwarderode Castle is located on Burgplatz square in the heart of Braunschweig. It's easily accessible by public transport, with several bus and tram lines stopping nearby. Walking from the city center is also a pleasant option. TikTok

While direct parking at the castle is limited, there are several public parking garages within a short walking distance in the city center. Consider using these if you're arriving by car. TikTok

Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from Braunschweig Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to Dankwarderode Castle. The route is well-signposted and takes you through the city center. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Generally, it's open during typical museum hours, but specific days and times should be confirmed. Reddit

Admission fees are usually modest, reflecting the size of the exhibition. It's advisable to check the current ticket prices online, as they can change. Reddit

For general visits, advance booking is typically not required, especially on weekdays. However, for special events or group visits, it's recommended to inquire about booking procedures. Reddit

Currently, it appears there isn't a combined ticket option, as Dankwarderode Castle functions as part of the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum but has separate access. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find a single hall showcasing medieval art, including Gothic and Romanesque pieces, tapestries, altar pieces, paintings, and the original Brunswick Lion monument. Reddit

Most visitors find that the exhibition can be comfortably seen in about 30 minutes, given the compact nature of the display. Reddit

On certain days, visitors have the opportunity to climb the castle tower for panoramic views of Braunschweig. Check locally for availability and times. Reddit

While the historical artifacts might be more engaging for older children, the impressive architecture and the story of the Brunswick Lion can capture younger imaginations. TikTok

The Brunswick Lion is a historical symbol of the city and the House of Welf. The original monument, displayed inside the castle, is a significant piece of local heritage. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can vary. It's best to check for signage upon entry or ask staff. Often, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use. Instagram

The Burgplatz square offers excellent vantage points for capturing the castle's exterior, especially with the Brunswick Cathedral and Lion monument in the frame. Instagram

If photography is allowed, focus on capturing the overall ambiance and key pieces. Be mindful of any restrictions on close-ups or flash. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dankwarderode Castle offers a compact yet engaging historical experience for families. While the medieval art might appeal more to older children, the impressive castle architecture and the story of the Brunswick Lion are sure to capture younger imaginations. TikTok Consider making it a short, focused visit to keep children interested. The castle's location on Burgplatz also means you can easily combine it with exploring the square and seeing the Brunswick Cathedral. Instagram

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, Dankwarderode Castle is a must-visit. It provides a direct link to the era of Henry the Lion and the medieval period of Braunschweig. The collection of Gothic and Romanesque art, including tapestries and altar pieces, offers a concentrated dose of historical artifacts. Reddit Don't miss the chance to see the original Brunswick Lion monument inside, a truly significant piece of local heritage. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Medieval Braunschweig

Dankwarderode Castle, a reconstruction of a 12th-century ducal palace, stands proudly on Burgplatz, a central square in Braunschweig. Its imposing exterior hints at the historical significance of the region, particularly under the rule of Henry the Lion. The castle's reconstruction aims to preserve the memory of its original grandeur, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past. Instagram

Inside, the castle houses a curated collection of medieval art and artifacts, primarily from the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum. This exhibition hall is a treasure trove of Gothic and Romanesque pieces, featuring intricate tapestries, devotional altar pieces, and other historical objects. The presence of the original Brunswick Lion monument within the collection adds a unique layer to the visitor experience, symbolizing the city's enduring legacy. Reddit

While the exhibition space is compact, it provides a focused and impactful encounter with medieval art. The attention to detail in the castle's architecture and the historical significance of its contents make it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in the history and art of the region. Reddit

The Iconic Brunswick Lion

The Brunswick Lion is more than just a statue; it's a powerful symbol deeply intertwined with the history of Braunschweig. Originally erected by Henry the Lion in the 12th century, it stood as a testament to his power and influence. The monument you see today on Burgplatz is a replica, but the original, a significant piece of medieval art, is preserved and displayed within Dankwarderode Castle. Instagram

Seeing the original Brunswick Lion inside the castle offers a unique perspective on its historical context. It allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and the weight of history associated with this iconic symbol. Its presence within the medieval art collection underscores the castle's role as a custodian of Braunschweig's heritage. Reddit

For those interested in the city's identity, understanding the story of the Brunswick Lion is key. It represents centuries of ducal rule, civic pride, and the enduring spirit of Braunschweig. Instagram

You may also like