Arnsberg, Administrative city in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Arnsberg is a large district town in North Rhine-Westphalia that curves along the Ruhr River at around 200 meters (660 feet) elevation. Forested mountains surround the town and shape the landscape with steep slopes and green valleys that reach into the center.
Counts of Werl founded a castle here in the 11th century, around which the settlement grew. The town received its official charter in 1238 and later became the seat of the Duchy of Westphalia.
The name likely derives from a medieval fortress that once stood here, though today visitors know it as a regional administrative seat rather than a military site. Signs throughout the old town point to half-timbered houses and walking routes that follow the shape of the river valley.
Several neighborhoods spread along the river and hillsides, so comfortable footwear helps when walking around. Visitor centers and tourist offices offer maps that assist with orientation in the hilly terrain.
For centuries, secret court sessions of the Vehmgericht took place here, a medieval legal system from Westphalia. These tribunals decided on serious crimes without defendants often knowing who judged them.
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