Prinzenraub — Open-Air Theatre Hartenstein Castle Ruins

The Altenburger Prinzenraub — Subject for Saxony's Medieval Theatre

On July 8th, 1455, the Wettin knight Kunz von Kauffungen abducted the two sons of Elector Friedrich II, Ernst and Albert, from Altenburg Castle. The coup, which failed shortly thereafter, remained alive in Saxon historical consciousness — it marked the beginning of the division of the House of Wettin (Ernestine-Albertine separation), is still taught in local history classes today, and has been the subject of theatrical performances since the 19th century. In Hartenstein in the western Ore Mountains — one of the stations on Kunz von Kauffungen's escape route — the story has been staged since 2025 as an open-air theatre spectacle on the walls of the castle ruins.

Hartenstein Castle Ruins as an Open-Air Stage

Hartenstein Castle Ruins sit enthroned on a rock above the Mulde river in the Erzgebirgskreis district. Built in the 12th century as a hilltop castle, expanded into a palace in the 16th century, and reduced to ruins in 1944 after a fire, it is today an impressive monument to medieval fortification art. The Friends of Hartenstein Castle Ruins Association has been working for years on its preservation and reconstruction and uses the site as a venue for events — concerts, markets, medieval spectacles. With the 'Prinzenraub' open-air event, a new theatrical tradition was created in 2025.

100 Amateur Actors, Horses, Costumes

The production thrives on regional participation: Over 100 amateur actors from Hartenstein and the surrounding area — young people, adults, seniors — perform on stage. Riders with horses, historical costumes in medieval tailoring tradition, sword fights, fire effects, music from the era. The 2025 premiere was seen by around 1500 visitors and celebrated in the regional press as an impressive blend of history, theatre, and local identity. In 2026, the play will be revived with three performances — Friday evening, Saturday afternoon, Saturday evening — and concluded with an ecumenical church service on Sunday morning.

Getting There and the Region

Hartenstein is located in the Erzgebirgskreis district south of Zwickau, on the B 93 between Wilkau-Haßlau and Aue. By car via the A 72 (Stollberg exit) or via Zwickau. Parking is available at the public swimming pool and behind the Netto supermarket — a shuttle bus runs between the Netto parking lot and the castle ruins. Those wishing to stay overnight will find guesthouses in Hartenstein and the surrounding area.