Burgmuseum Altnußberg
Small museum with excavation finds at the excavated Altnußberg castle ruin, the largest and oldest castle complex in the Bavarian Forest.
No sound? Check your device’s silent switch.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
Altnußberg Castle near Geiersthal was probably built between 1174 and 1194 by the Nußberger, ministerials of the Counts of Bogen. It later passed via the Wittelsbachs to the Degenbergs. In the 15th century, Hans von Degenberg rose to the rank of imperial baron and played a leading role in the Böcklerbund (Böckler League) against the Bavarian dukes.
After the league's defeat, the castle's commander handed the complex over to the troops of Duke Albrecht IV in January 1469 without a fight; they razed it completely. For around 500 years it then lay hidden.
From 1983, the ruin was uncovered on the initiative of then-mayor Ludwig Hilmer, archaeologically investigated until 1999 and partly rebuilt; the five-sided keep stands again at its full height. In 1985 the friends' association was founded to look after the site. Part of the excavation finds is displayed in the castle museum, including everyday objects, weapon parts, jugs and stove tiles.
Highlights
- Largest and oldest castle complex in the Bavarian Forest
- Rebuilt five-sided keep that can be climbed
- Castle museum with excavation finds in themed display cases
- Free digital castle tour by smartphone
- Castle tavern with beer garden
Permanent exhibition
- Burgmuseum Altnußberg – Selected excavation finds in display cases on everyday life, crafts, children's play, glass, coins and jewelry, plus weapon parts and stove tiles.
- Operated by
- Förderverein der Freunde und Gönner der Burgruine Altnußberg e. V.
Admission & discounts
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
- Playground / play area
Children's playground next to the castle tavern.
Getting there & parking
Navigation address: Auf dem Schloßberg 2, 94244 Geiersthal (Altnußberg district).
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Café
- Restaurant
Castle tavern with around 40 seats and a beer garden: snacks, coffee and cake.
Events & venue rental
- Spaces for rent
- Private parties
- Weddings / ceremonies
Up to 40 guests.
Civil wedding ceremonies from May to October in the castle museum; celebrations at the castle tavern (about 40 people). Dates are arranged through the Geiersthal registry office (Standesamt).
Inquiries & detailsPlan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Tours of the castle site and museum for groups and school classes can be booked through the Geiersthal Tourist Information (tel. 09923 8415-11). Individual visitors can use the free digital castle tour via QR codes on the signs around the site (stations 1–18). |

