Freilichtmuseum Königspfalz Tilleda

About the museum

From about 700, a small settlement existed on the Pfingstberg near Tilleda, which developed into a fortified palatinate in the 10th century. In 972 Emperor Otto II transferred the complex to his wife Theophanu; until 1042, documents record stays by Ottonian and Salian rulers. Frederick Barbarossa also issued charters here, and in 1194 Henry VI reconciled with Henry the Lion at a court assembly in Tilleda. After that the palatinate lost its function and fell into decay.

After a local historian from Nordhausen rediscovered the remains of the ramparts and ditches in the 19th century, the site was completely excavated in 1935–1939 and 1958–1979. Tilleda is thus considered the only completely investigated palatinate and a model example of such a royal residence.

The first reconstructions were built from 1983, and since 2001 the municipality has been developing the roughly four-hectare site into an experience museum according to a new concept. At the original locations, defensive works, residential and workshop buildings, and technical facilities were rebuilt; exhibition buildings show finds, models, and sources. The operator today is the town of Kelbra.

Highlights

• The only completely excavated royal palatinate
• Reconstructed pincer gate with a tower you can enter
• Siege tower, battering ram, and medieval mortar mixer
• Excavation site for children
• View of the Kyffhäuser mountains

Permanent exhibitions

• Freilichtmuseum Königspfalz – Reconstructed defensive works, residential buildings, workshops, and technical facilities at their original locations.
• Ausstellungshäuser zu Herrschern, Wirtschaft und Alltag – Finds, models, and written and pictorial sources on the lords of the palatinate, its economy, everyday life, and building history.

Operated by

Stadt Kelbra (Kyffhäuser)

Admission & discounts

Group tour (1 hour): from 15 people €2 per person, smaller groups a flat rate of €30, in each case plus admission. Children's and youth groups €3 plus program modules.

Accessibility

• Partially wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Guests with walking difficulties can drive directly onto the grounds via the service entrance after registering by phone. The gravel path on the grounds is flat and passable by wheelchair; towers and wall walks only via stairs, and the exhibition buildings only with assistance.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Hands-on stations

Excavation site for children, treasure hunt, and hands-on activities for children's and youth groups; much of what is on the grounds can be tried out.

Getting there & parking

From the A 38 via the exits Sangerhausen-Ost, Roßla, or Berga. Tilleda lies on the bike path through the Goldene Aue; hiking trail from the Kyffhäuser Monument a little over 2 km.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this – please ask the museum directly.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events
• Weddings / ceremonies

Up to 40 guests.

Reconstructed 11th-century farmhouse for about 40 people (rental €75 plus admission), with tents if needed; use only until dark. Photo shoots are also possible.

Plan your visit