This courtyard complex was made famous by the legend of Count Ernst von Gleichen, who is said to have joined the Fifth Crusade in 1227. After he was taken prisoner, he promised to marry the Sultan’s daughter, Melech-Sala, who then helped him to escape. The Pope is reported to have given the Count’s bigamous marriage his blessing. The site at the foot of the hill where the two wives first met upon the Count’s return was named the Freudenthal (‘Valley of Joys’).

The Freudenthal is located close to the Wandersleben/Mühlberg exit from the A4 motorway near Erfurt, which makes it easily accessible from anywhere in Thuringia.

There is plenty of parking.

Its great atmosphere makes this a very popular wedding venue during the summer months, and chef Sebastian Balke delights diners with his Austrian-inspired cuisine in the Z´samm restaurant, which reopened on 1st January 2025, as well as in the beer garden (summer only; see website for opening times).

Here at the Freudenthal, we also sell certified organic beef from our own herd of highland cattle. We are happy to take orders by phone on +49 174 3441131 for collection from our shop.