The strategic importance of the mountain crest across from Ehrenberg has been known for a long time. In 1632 the Swedes marched to the gates of Ehrenberg. Only years later, from 1639 to 1645, under the Tyrolean regent Archduchess Claudia Fort Claudia was built, and named after this princess. In 1703 Fort Claudia was taken by the Bavarians, who began the occupation of Ehrenberg from here. In 1782 the fortress was closed down. Even in the 19th century, the old fortress was inhabited, yet was left to decay after it was abandoned.
In 2014, the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge was completed between the Ehrenberg Castle ruins and Fort Claudia, spanning the strategically important pass that these two structures were in part meant to guard. The length of the bridge 403 meters, with a height 110 meters.
References:Kakesbeck is one of the largest medieval fortifications in Münsterland and the oldest castle in Lüdinghausen. The imposingly grown complex originated in 1120 as a motte, a small hilltop tower castle. After numerous changes of ownership, the castle was extended onto two islands, but it was not until the 14th century that it underwent significant alterations and extensions under the von Oer family. The estate experienced its heyday in the middle of the 18th century, when it covered an area of almost one square kilometre and consisted of five further outer castles in addition to the core castle, which were secured by ramparts and moats.
The well-maintained condition of the castle today is thanks to the late Wilfried Grewing, the former lord of the castle. The foundation named after him has been particularly committed to preserving the property since 2020.