Welcome to Eckental, we're glad you could join us today! This walk serves as your personal tour guide, taking you through the historic town of Eschenau. Feel free to stroll at your own pace or follow the suggested tour route.

Eschenau was first documented in 1298, but it was actually founded 150 years earlier by the Imperial Ministerial Otnand, who received it as "free property" from Emperor Henry III. Otnand chose Eschenau as his family seat, and from his descendants emerged the knightly family "von Eschenau." The town was conveniently located at the crossroads of old trade routes—the "Iron Road" and the "Nuremberg-Bayreuth" connection, which led through Heroldsberg and continued through the forest to Eschenau. This location was ideal for the establishment of various craft businesses.

To secure the area and this important trade route, a motte-and-bailey castle was built as a characteristic fortification in the Franconian region, which later developed into Eschenau Castle. Agenda 21 also offers group tours through the individual districts upon request.