Slavic Castle Raddusch: A Journey Through Lusatian History

The Slavic Castle Raddusch, or *Slawenburg Raddusch* in German, stands as a testament to the rich Slavic history of the Lower Lusatia region. This reconstructed ringwall castle offers visitors an immersive journey back to the 9th and 10th centuries, providing insights into the lives, culture, and architecture of the Slavic Lusizi tribe who once inhabited this area. Located near the town of Vetschau/Spreewald, the Slawenburg is more than just a historical site; it's a vibrant center for education, culture, and recreation. The original Slavic settlement at Raddusch dates back over 1,000 years. The Lusizi tribe, part of the larger West Slavic group, constructed a network of refuge and storage castles throughout the region. The Raddusch ringwall, with a diameter of 57 meters, a width of over 10 meters, and a height of up to 9 meters, served as a vital defensive structure. In 963, the castle was abandoned. Over time, the castle fell into disrepair, and the rampart was used for agricultural purposes until 1984. In the 1980s, rescue excavations were carried out before lignite mining threatened the site. These excavations unearthed a wealth of artifacts, including weapons, jewelry, and pottery, providing valuable information about the daily life and culture of the Slavic inhabitants. Between 1999 and 2003, the Slavic Castle was rebuilt true to the original. The reconstruction was a joint project by the Brandenburg State Office for preservation of monuments and historic building and Archaeological State Museum, Amt Vetschau, the International Building Exhibition (IBA) Fürst-Pückler-Land and the Lausitzer and Middle-German Bergbauverwaltungsgesellschaft mbH. Today's Slawenburg Raddusch is not an exact replica but rather an idealized reconstruction based on the archaeological findings at Raddusch and other similar sites in Lower Lusatia, Saxony, and Poland. The modern structure incorporates a hollow concrete ring that houses the exhibition rooms, a castle shop, and a café. The exterior is clad in oak wood and clay, mimicking the presumed original appearance of the castle. Inside the castle walls, visitors can explore one of Germany's most modern archaeological exhibitions. The exhibition showcases finds from the Stone Age to the Slavic Middle Ages, with a focus on the archaeological discoveries made in the Lower Lusatian open-cast mining areas. Original artifacts, on loan from various museums and institutions, tell the story of the region's past. The outdoor area of the Slawenburg offers a variety of attractions. A long pedestrian bridge, called the "Zeitsteg," presents the history of Lower Lusatia over the past 12,000 years. Landscape islands illustrate the plant life of different periods. A playground with a monumental wooden bull provides entertainment for children. Picnic areas invite visitors to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. The Slawenburg Raddusch hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including workshops, guided tours, and historical reenactments. These events offer visitors the opportunity to experience Slavic culture firsthand. Children can participate in activities such as archery, medieval games, and crafting workshops. The Slawenburg Raddusch is more than just a museum; it's a place where history comes alive. It's a place where visitors can learn about the past, connect with the culture of the Sorbian/Wendish people, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Spreewald region. The site also includes a bistro offering culinary delights and a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase unique mementos of their visit. The recent acquisition of the Slawenburg Raddusch by a Czech owner, David Chmelík, signals a new chapter for the site. Chmelík, who has a passion for Slavic history and culture, plans to expand the Slawenburg with a replica of a medieval Slavic village and enclosures for animals. He also intends to organize cultural events and collaborate with local businesses to make the Slawenburg a center for Slavic culture in Europe. The Slawenburg Raddusch is easily accessible and offers free parking for visitors. It is open daily, with varying hours depending on the season. Admission fees are reasonable, with discounts for children and families. The site is largely barrier-free, making it accessible to visitors with disabilities. A visit to the Slawenburg Raddusch can be combined with other attractions in the Spreewald region, such as boat trips, cycling tours, and visits to traditional Sorbian villages. The Slawenburg is also located near the Gurkenradweg (Cucumber Cycle Path), a popular cycling route that passes through the Spreewald's cucumber-growing region. Whether you are a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and educational day trip, the Slawenburg Raddusch is sure to impress. Its unique blend of history, culture, and recreation makes it a must-see destination in the Spreewald region.