Achalm Castle

Achalm Castle is a medieval castle ruin located at 707 meters on Achalm mountain near Reutlingen, topped by an observation tower built in 1838 on its original foundation. The walls remain partially intact and show the layout of a fortified structure from the High Middle Ages.

The castle was built between 1030 and 1050 by Count Egino and Count Rudolf, serving as a strategic stronghold for the powerful Achalm family until the 13th century. After its partial destruction during the Thirty Years' War, the remaining stones were repurposed to construct buildings in nearby villages.

The castle's name comes from Indo-European roots meaning sharp or cliff, reflecting the rocky landscape of the Swabian Alb region. Today the ruins serve as a local landmark that draws visitors interested in connecting with the area's past.

The site is accessible via marked hiking trails from Reutlingen and offers views across Baden-Württemberg's landscape from the observation tower. The trails are open year-round, though snow and wet conditions can make the climb more difficult.

The castle's stones were repurposed in 1650 to build houses in surrounding villages after the structure was partially destroyed during the Thirty Years' War. This shows how wartime destruction led to practical solutions in the local community.