Schwedenschanze

Schwedenschanze is an archaeological site on Amtshausberg near Vlotho with remains of old fortification structures. The hilltop offers views across the North Rhine-Westphalian landscape and shows traces of multiple settlement layers from different periods.

The site was founded during the Early Middle Ages and was later fortified by local people during the Thirty Years War. It shows how older fortifications were reused in new conflicts.

The site takes its name from a 17th-century siege when local people used the older fortifications against Swedish troops. Visitors can still observe how different generations chose this hilltop as a protective position.

The site is accessible via marked hiking trails that lead to the hilltop. Informational panels at the location explain the fortification structures and different settlement phases.

The fortifications show a shift from irregular medieval patterns to more geometric defensive designs of the 17th century. These differences are clearly visible in the preserved structures.