Lichtenberg Castle in danger: factory farming threatens landscape protection!

Lichtenberg Castle in danger: factory farming threatens landscape protection!

In Oberstefeld, not far from the impressive Lichtenberg Castle, the operator of a poultry farm is planning a controversial expansion of his facilities. Martin Föll, whose company is based in Großbottwar, would like to build a new laying hen house that will provide space for up to 12,000 animals. However, this development is not without resistance, especially from Christoph Wichmann, the owner of the listed Lichtenberg Castle, which sits on a foothill of the Löwenstein Mountains.

Wichmann expresses his concerns about factory farming in the immediate vicinity of the historic castle. He sees not only the landscape photography at risk, but also the planned outdoor catering that is to be built in the area around the castle. This restaurant would suffer greatly from the massive structural presence of the new stable. The local council had already voted against two previous applications for laying hen houses in 2021 due to fears that the dense construction could result in a “splinter settlement” and have a negative impact on the town and landscape.

Changes in planning

After the resistance, Föll has now submitted a modified plan that envisages a reduction in the number of animals: 4,650 laying hens are planned to be kept barn and 2,700 to be kept free-range. This adjustment has enabled the local council to reach agreement, even if Wichmann remains skeptical. However, the deputy mayor Michael Meder sees acceptance in the updated planning because the visibility of the stable could be reduced. Wichmann hopes that the district office will veto the construction project due to landscape protection concerns.

Lichtenberg Castle itself has a long history, dating back to the 12th century, when it was first mentioned in a document. In the following centuries it changed hands several times and played an important role in the region's politics. The Lichtenbergs gained influence particularly during the Hohenstaufen period, which is underlined by historical figures such as Hermann von Lichtenberg, who later became Bishop of Würzburg.

The historical significance of the castle

The castle is still a popular destination for tourists and an attractive location for weddings and events. Its well-preserved buildings, which include the keep and the shield and surrounding walls, are made of humped blocks and bear witness to the architecture of the Middle Ages. The chapel with wall paintings from the 13th century also attracts visitors. Throughout its history, the castle has survived various challenges, including looting during the Thirty Years' War and destruction during the Second World War.

The ongoing interest in the castle highlights the need to protect such historic sites. At the same time, the planned expansion of the poultry farm raises questions about how far economic interests should be weighed against cultural heritage. Considering the elements of the castle, such as the defensive ones Moats, which were a key element in the architecture of many castles, it becomes clear how important the preservation of such structures is for the region.

The ongoing discussion will show whether local decision-makers in Oberstefeld and the district office value the protection of the castle and the surrounding landscape more highly than the economic benefits of a new laying hen house.