Burg Fest

There was another medieval festival this weekend, but this time it was at a castle ruins called Bodenlaube which is located in Bad Kissingen and not too far from here. Of course we had to go check out all of the knights and princesses! There seem to be quite a few of these medieval events around here and everyone really gets into it getting all dressed up in their medieval garb.

Here is a little history of the castle ruins. The castle was home to Otto von Botenlauben and his wife Beatrix de Courtnay, who both stayed from 1220 to 1242. The exact year the castle was built is unknown, but it is generally accepted to be from around 1180. The name probably comes from the words ‘Boto’ and ‘Laube’ (meaning residence). In 1234, the castle came under the control of the Bishopric of Würzburg, under Bishop Hermann I von Lobdeburg. In 1242, the castle became the administrative centre of the diocese's offices. It was eventually moved to Ebernhausen in 1525 following the Peasants' War, and then completely dissolved in 1670. Following the failed peasant's revolution, they were forced to rebuild the destroyed castle. In 1553, during the 'Margravial war', the castle was destroyed for the last time, and since the 17th century has served as a quarry to the residents of Reiterswiesen.

Around 1830, this situation came to an end when people began to take an interest in the Romantic period and the Middle Ages. From the beginning, the guiding principle was always to make the castle into a tourist attraction, which became more of an historical interest at the start of the 20th century. In the second half of the century, the castle underwent some restoration work. Today, life in the castle during the middle ages is remembered and re-enacted each year in September with the 'Burgfest'.

Aaron likes all of the different flags; I think the chicken one is neat.

Here are some of the booths they had. Medieval vendors sold knightly gear, princess attire, jewelry and much more! They were set up all around the castle ruins.

Here are some peasants I spied at the Burg Fest.

This guy really got into the fun!

There was even a medieval battle of knights! The acting was funny to watch. They were just silly.

We couldn't leave the Burg Fest without adding to the attire of our own little princesses and brave knight.

After we got home Knight Josef put on his battle clothes and prepared to defend Kronungen!

There is nothing that makes this Queen happier than having two beautiful princesses and a big, brave knight living in her castle.