Pyrmont Castle, Medieval castle in Roes, Germany

Pyrmont Castle is a medieval rock castle on a slate outcrop above the Elzbach waterfall, west of Münstermaifeld. Its irregular rectangular layout follows the Staufer style, with a 24.5-metre round bergfried of the donjon type, the first of its kind in the Middle Rhine region. The inner bailey holds the palas, cookhouse and keep, separated by a deep neck ditch from the rebuilt outer bailey.

The castle was built at the end of the 12th century as a defensive stronghold. The Waldbott family later took ownership and added large windows, giving parts of the building a less military character.

The castle is open to visitors as a museum since 1990, with old furniture and furnishings in the interior rooms recalling former owners. A souvenir shop occupies the rebuilt outer bailey. The name Pyrmont comes from the family of Cuno II, the first to call himself Lord of Pyrmont.

The castle is clearly visible from the valley, and marked footpaths lead up to it, though the climb calls for some effort. Visiting between spring and fall works best, as the paths are drier and easier to walk.

The castle's 24.5-metre round bergfried was the first donjon of its kind in the entire Middle Rhine region. It has two vaulted ceilings and fireplaces, and visitors can climb it as an observation tower. In its shadow lies a 49-metre-deep well, the Sodbrunnen.