Siege – Attack on Burg Geroldseck

The Siege by Philip the Upright
The medieval castle on the hill, Burg Hohengeroldseck, has an interesting history. Built in the 13th century, it was the residence of the lords of the House of Geroldseck. However, they were unable to fulfill their inheritance or financial duties to Philip the Upright who took this as a threat to his power. Summarily, he occupied the castle on September 1, 1486.

Powerful Army in Action
With 8,009 horsemen (armed servants on horseback), knights, nobles and servants, the Elector Palatine laid siege to the castle. Additionally, 1,600 horses, 200 arquebuses (medieval muskets), and 87 artillery pieces were brought to the castle. 

Strategic Encircling of the Castle
First, the castle was encircled and ramparts were built. Can you see it on the picture in the viewer? Large and small cannons were brought by ship and then transported overland to the castle. It was of course difficult for the occupied to get food and weapons. Moreover, they were under constant fire – what do you think the defenders could do to protect the castle?

The Castle under Fire
Under the direction of the military and artillery expert Martin Merz, the chances for a successful siege were certainly very good. He was a genuine master in the use of firearms, cannons and artillery. These heavy weapons were indispensable for besieging fortifications and use on the battlefield.

Conquest of the Castle after a 6-week Siege
As you can undoubtedly imagine, the defenders capitulated. The resources inside the castle were exhausted and the prospect of support from allied troops was scant. Before the imminent attack, the 70-man castle staff, primarily consisting of peasants and a small Hapsburg troop contingent, surrendered.
In general, Philip the Upright wanted to use the siege of Burg Hohengeroldseck to consolidate his rule and expand his sphere of influence. With it, he manifested his power. It was also a warning to other nobility who might challenge his authority.

What’s More
Martin Merz was not only a man of practice but also a pioneer whose technical innovations greatly influenced the art of war in his time. He dedicated considerable time to perfecting hand-held weapons and is even supposed to have invented a carriage for the storage of gun barrels. What other weapons can you see on the picture in the viewer?