Ringelstein Castle, Harth, Germany

In 1383, the Davensberg branch of the noble lords of Büren acquired a newly constructed castle from Archbishop Friedrich of Cologne as a fief. It was intended as an outpost in the Almetal and was to be jointly owned by the Davensberg and Cologne Archbishop.

In 1394, the Davensbergs pawned the castle to Johann von Scharfenberg, a branch of the Padberg family. Concurrently, the noble lords of Büren pawned their half of the castle and town of Alme to Hermann von Padberg. The redemption of the Ringelstein castle took place in 1399 by Berthold von Büren.

While often suggested to defend against the Padbergs, there is no evidence linking the pawning and redemption of Ringelstein and Alme castles for this purpose.

In 1458, the castle was granted as a fief to the Landgrave of Hesse. During the Thirty Years' War, Ringelstein became a venue for witch trials, with a judicial site and torture facilities. In 1631, 55 people were convicted and executed as witches within 30 days. After 1802, Ringelstein declined in significance and fell into ruin.

User Reviews

Franky (6 months ago)
You shouldn't expect much now, but it's still nice for a short visit.

Carola Bockamp (8 months ago)
According to the navigation system, we drove past the castle ruins twice. It is not easy to find. There is not much left of the former castle. But what is still there is extremely well maintained. Only the really nice, rolled raised beds need a bit of a general overhaul (paint the wood, remove weeds, partially replant) Otherwise everything is great. So much seating, mown lawn... There's a nice barbecue and playground right next door. Everything maintained with love and everything free of charge. Really highly recommended ?

Reiseralf (2 years ago)
There are few signs to the castle ruins, either before the curve in the road through the forest or at the Schützenheim via the parking lot

Thomas Bordasch (2 years ago)
You can find it behind the local rifle club... Climbing up or approaching by bike is a real challenge due to the inclines. Be sure to check the opening hours beforehand, otherwise the trip will be short because nobody will be there... Better bring food with you!

Melanie Gerstmann-Becker (2 years ago)
It was raining and somehow uncomfortable, but if you are interested in history, you should also visit these ruins!!! And it looked like there was still work going on there in the form of excavations!!!

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Dallas.Epperson

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Ringelstein Castle

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