Blankenstein Castle, Hattingen, Germany

Blankenstein Castle was built originally in 1227-1243 by Adolf I, Count of Mark. It was further developed over the course of 200 years by the Counts of the Mark. By 1425, Blankenstein was one of the most important castles in the county. In 1614, shortly before the Thirty Years' War, it was occupied by Spanish troops. From 1637, the castle fell into disrepair so that, in September 1662, Frederick William, Elector of Brandenburg ordered its demolition. Only the tower and parts of the curtain wall remained.

In 1860, the owner of the ruin, the employer, Gustav vom Stein, began to rebuild the castle and established a factory there. The property has belonged to the city of Bochum since 1922, but the town is looking for an alternative due to the costs. From 1957 to 1959, most of the buildings of the 19th century were pulled down, but some still remain.

The tower can still be visited and offers a good view over Bochum and the Kemnader Lake.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Gangalic Catalin (5 months ago)
Tldr; really great small fortress that's worth a visit. First of all, the entry is free of charge and is easily accessible even with reduced mobility thanks to the small stone bridge. Also, getting to fortress is pretty trivial from the two or the bus station. If you stop at the closest bus station geographically, be ready to go down a small hill and up some stairs. Better stop at the station closer to Hattingen and just walk through the small town to the church, then to the fortress. Inside the fortress it's possible to climb up the main tower by the gate. It may need some effort, but at the end you get a great 360° view over the surroundings. In case you want to take a bite, there is a restaurant inside, but also a food truck. Enjoy your visit!

Steven Bunner (5 months ago)
Nice views, great area for eating outside

Aleksandar Milosavljevic (6 months ago)
Very nice place for a family visit. Plus they can organize every kind of celebration because there is a place for it.

akhil murali (10 months ago)
Calm and Relaxing. Best place to indulge amongst the remainings of the past if you're near bochum.

Mike Adamzek (15 months ago)
Good food, very nice atmosphere. Stunning views from terras and castle tower. Worthy place to visit and enjoy good food

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Steve Clasper

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