Altena Castle

Altena, Germany

Altena Castle was erected by the brothers Adolf and Everhard von Berg around the year 1108 after Henry V granted them land in Sauerland. On Wulfseck Mountain they built their castle, which they named Wulfeshagen, later Altena. This is one of the three legends of the establishment of the county of Altena and the building of the castle.

After the acquisition of Mark near the city of Hamm in 1198, the counts of Altena took Mark Castle as their primary residence and called themselves the Counts of the Mark. They occasionally inhabited Altena Castle and from 1392 onward it was used as a residence for the county bailiff (Amtmann).

In 1912, Richard Schirrmann established the world's first youth hostel within the castle, which is still in use today (Jugendherberge Burg Altena).

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Address

Burgweg 9, Altena, Germany
See all sites in Altena

Details

Founded: 1108
Category: Castles and fortifications in Germany
Historical period: Salian Dynasty (Germany)

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

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Hohensyburg Castle (18,7 km)
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Strünkede Castle (42,7 km)
St. Maria zur Wiese Church (43 km)

User Reviews

John Jaebeom Shin (6 months ago)
There are certainly more beautiful castles in Germany but this one is also worth a visit if you are a castle fan. The price is fairly alright. As a student I paid 5 euros for combo ticket for the lift right and the castle entry. The main entrance is located on the main street
Mesbah -Ul-Awal (7 months ago)
Beautiful hill castle located in Altena, surprised to know that it has world's first youth hostel within the castle (according to wiki).
Esse Obi (7 months ago)
A wonderful place for an all day family outing. Those who like to learn the history of a place in Germany can visit this great historical masterpiece. There is a good parking lot and one can eat in the nearby restaurant.
Ryan Catcott (8 months ago)
The castle is amazing. Wish I'd have known about the elevator from town earlier as driving up to the castle and back down is a bit of a challenge. The tour is well worth the money. However we did not find anyone there who spoke English and unfortunately the restaurant was closed for renovations.
Andy Weiland (8 months ago)
Pretty cool place to have a walk and to enjoy the sunshine. There is a museum included which appears to be a interesting spot if the weather is not that good. Free parking at the foot of the hill, than ~10 minutes to walk upwards. Amazing view from above, in total : recommendation!
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