County of Ravensberg, Historical county in Eastern Westphalia, Germany
The County of Ravensberg was a medieval territory in Eastern Westphalia that stretched between the Teutoburg Forest and Wiehen Mountains. Its core lay in present-day Bielefeld with Sparrenberg, while the landscape extended across Herford and Bad Oeynhausen toward flatter ground.
The territory emerged in the 12th century with its first seat at Ravensberg Castle, then moved to the newly built Sparrenberg Castle in Bielefeld around 1240. It remained significant after joining Prussia until its dissolution during the Napoleonic period in 1807.
The region developed strong Lutheran roots and became known for linen production and crafts that shaped its economy. These traditions remain visible in the character of Bielefeld and Herford today.
You can explore the former county today by visiting Bielefeld, Herford, and Bad Oeynhausen, where Sparrenberg and other castle ruins remain. Traveling through the region reveals traces of this past in architecture and street layouts.
The county was part of the Lower Rhenish-Westphalian Circle within the Holy Roman Empire, giving it a special position between competing powers. This role as a buffer zone made it valuable to rulers and allies during many conflicts.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
