Schwarzenburg

Schwarzenburg is a castle ruin in the Black Forest above Waldkirch, located on a forested hillside at about 656 meters elevation. The remaining stone walls still show parts of an octagonal staircase tower and defensive passages that reveal how the structure once protected its inhabitants.

The castle was founded around 1120 by the Schwarzenberg noble family and served as their residence for several centuries. It was abandoned in the 15th century and gradually declined into the ruin visible today.

The castle serves as a research site for medieval architecture, presenting original building techniques through its remaining structures and foundation patterns.

The ruins are reachable via marked forest trails from Waldkirch, which takes about an hour on foot. Information boards along the route help with orientation and explain the remains you encounter.

Some wall sections still show traces of coffered ceilings from the 16th century, hinting at the family's former wealth. These details are easy to miss if you do not look closely at the stonework.