Burg Rauendahl, Medieval castle ruins in Hattingen, Germany
Burg Rauendahl is a castle ruin on the right bank of the Ruhr River, situated about 90 meters above the water level. Stone foundations and steps from the former fortress become visible when water levels drop.
The fortress was destroyed in 1287 by Count Eberhard I of Mark to drive out a robber knight from the Hardenberg family who controlled the region. This destruction ended the site's role as an active stronghold.
The site retains its medieval name reflecting its fortress past. Visitors today can sense how this location once served as a defensive stronghold before industrial development transformed the landscape.
Access is best from the adjacent former industrial site where the grounds are now open to visitors. Come when water levels are low to see the ruins clearly along the riverbank.
During excavations for a coal storage facility in 1803, workers discovered ancient urns, tools, weapons, and horse equipment. These artifacts were later examined by Carl Arnold Kortum, helping reveal earlier settlement patterns at the site.
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