Braunfels

Braunfels is a German town located in the state of Hesse, in the district of Gießen, about 10 km from Wetzlar and 70 km north of Frankfurt am Main. It is renowned for its fairytale castle, Burg Braunfels, which served as an inspiration for the Brothers Grimm, as well as for its well-preserved old town, which exudes a charming medieval atmosphere.

The town was first mentioned in 1246, when Braunfels Castle was built as a defensive fortress. In the seventeenth century, Braunfels was enriched with half-timbered buildings, and the castle was transformed into a more stately residence. The town suffered damage during the Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648) but was later rebuilt and further embellished. In the nineteenth century, it became a tourist destination, thanks to its historical charm and panoramic position in the Taunus Mountains.

Braunfels is a popular tourist destination due to its medieval architecture and picturesque hilly landscapes. Besides tourism, the town’s economy is based on crafts, trade, and light industry. Throughout the year, Braunfels hosts medieval markets, concerts, and historical re-enactments related to castle life

It has been nicknamed Little Heidelberg due to its historical charm and a castle reminiscent of that in Heidelberg. The town is closely linked to the Solms-Braunfels family, one of Germany’s oldest noble dynasties.