At the eastern edge of their domain, the Vögte of Plauen controlled a ring of fortifications including Treuen, Auerbach, Falkenstein, and Schöneck. This stage follows this historic eastern border.
Besides the four towns, the former water castle on the Göltzsch in Rodewisch and the numerous churches of medieval origin are worth seeing. Museums in Auerbach, Lengenfeld, Falkenstein, and Schöneck convey the history of the region.
Treuen
While little of the medieval castle at the site of the manor in the “Upper Part” is still visible, in the “Lower Part” of the town you find a two-story late Renaissance castle. Characteristic features are the half-timbered structure and the staircase tower with an octagon and curved dome. Concerts and annual castle festivals are very popular.
Rodewisch
On the grounds of the castle island lies the water castle Göltzsch, first mentioned in 1450. Excavations in the 1930s uncovered numerous archaeological finds from the castle. These form the foundation of the museum “Göltzsch” collection in the former manor house, which is especially known for its annual Christmas exhibition. The Renaissance castle built around 1500 still impresses today.
Auerbach
Besides visiting the museum and the Laurentius Church, a historic city tour is recommended. The two original city guides entertainingly share astonishing and humorous stories from late medieval Auerbach. What is the story behind the legendary beer war between Rodewisch and the three-tower town of Auerbach? How did castle lords, citizens, and craftsmen live in earlier times?
Falkenstein
The castle rock — located between the castle and the zoo — marks the site of the medieval Falkenstein castle. The Falkenstein local history museum in the castle presents much valuable information about the local history.
Schöneck
Popular with small visitors is the castle playground at the Alten Söll with a great panoramic view. Few know that this viewing rock was the location of the castle with which the Vögte secured their sphere of influence to the east.
Other sights on this stage:
- Village church Altensalz
- Chapel Neuensalz
- Water castle ruins Mechelgrün
- Maria Magdalena Church Theuma
- Lengenfeld Museum
- Waldkirchen Church
- Röthenbach Church
- Castle tower and town church Auerbach
