Attack on Groß Raden — Castle Siege

Slavic Castle Under Fire

The "Attack on Groß Raden" is the major summer spectacle of the Groß Raden Archaeological Open-Air Museum. On a Saturday in July, historical reenactment groups simulate the attack on the Slavic castle rampart — with shield walls, spear formations, archers, and realistic combat demonstrations.

Authentic Setting

The Groß Raden open-air museum is a reconstruction of a Slavic temple castle complex from the 9th and 10th centuries. The buildings — Slavic temple, castle rampart with palisade ring, bridge, and artisan houses — were erected on the original site based on archaeological findings. They provide a rare authentic backdrop for living history performances.

Family Program 11 am–4 pm

The program runs from 11 am to 4 pm. In addition to the combat demonstrations, there are weapon presentations, craft demos, tasting of Slavic food, and explanations of the history and archaeology of the Slavic period. Suitable for families with children from primary school age; younger children are advised about the volume level of the combat scenes.

Local Context

Groß Raden is located in the Ludwigslust-Parchim district in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, near Sternberg. The Sternberger See, where the original castle complex once lay, shapes the landscape. The museum is part of the State Office for Culture and Monument Preservation MV and is one of the most important archaeological open-air museums in Northern Germany for the Slavic period.