The castle itself dates back to the 1200’s. Today, however most of it lays in ruin. Areas of the castle that do remain include, the chapel and one of its towers. The castle’s diverse and strange history, have seen the castle used as both a prison and an asylum. But, the truly fascinating tales and legends revolve around one of it’s previous tenants.

The man’s name was Johann Konrad Dippel, who often went by the sir-name Frankenstein. Johann was born in 1673 and had trained as both a physician and a scientist. As a man, Johann was notorious for his outspokenness and opinions. In fact, his opinions of church and religion landed him in prison for the crime of heresy.

Johann’s experiments and studies extended into the realms of alchemy. At a time when doctors robbing graves was not uncommon, it is hardly surprising that his name was linked to these kinds of things. In fact, his elixir known at the time as Dippel’s Oil contained bone char, which comes from the burned remnants of bone. Due to his habits and lifestyle, the townspeople drove the strange doctor out of the village.

Today, local legend claims that his ghost along with others now haunt Frankenstein Castle. Johann, is said to be seen most often between Christmas and New Year’s Day sitting on the roof of the chapel. Visitors to the castle have included numerous groups of paranormal investigators and ghost hunters, hoping to unravel the mysteries surrounding Frankenstein’s home.

Frankenstein really does exist.