Burgen

Burgen are fortified medieval dwellings typical of German-speaking regions. The word is the plural of Burg in German, and in English sources they are often called castles or fortresses. Burgen vary widely in size, layout, and function, but they generally combine defensive features with residential space and administrative authority.

Historically, burgen arose in the Early Middle Ages as seats of local nobility and as strategic anchors along trade routes, rivers, and frontiers. They served military defense, governance, and symbolized power and prestige. Over time many were expanded, rebuilt, or partially ruined by sieges, wars, and changing military technology. Some were transformed into more comfortable residences, while others remained austere fortifications.

Architectural features commonly found in burgen include the bergfried, a tall central tower used for surveillance and refuge; curtain walls that enclose inner and outer courtyards; gatehouses; and various towers and defensive outworks. The layouts often reflect the terrain, with many perched on hilltops or riverbanks. Styles range from Romanesque to Gothic and Renaissance, and some later reconstructions or restorations in the 19th and early 20th centuries emphasize romantic, rather than strictly historical, interpretations.

In German-speaking countries, burgen are numerous, with many preserved or restored as museums, monuments, or tourist attractions. Others survive only as ruins, yet they remain important in archaeology, history, and popular culture. The term is also used in place names and regional histories to denote historical fortifications that shaped political and economic development.

See also: Burg vs Schloss, fortress, castle architecture, medieval warfare, monument protection.

Notable examples include Burg Eltz and Burg Hohenzollern in Germany, and Burg Burghausen in Bavaria.