Burg Scharfenstein, Medieval castle in Münstertal, Black Forest, Germany.

Burg Scharfenstein is a stone fortress perched on a hill spur above Münstertal with structures dating from the 13th century. The site includes defensive walls and structures that show the layout of a medieval fortification.

Burg Scharfenstein was first mentioned in 1267 as castrum Scharphenstein, held by the lords of Staufen; finds suggest construction around 1200. It guarded the silver mines and the pack trail into the Wiesental. In 1346 Freiburg troops destroyed it in a dispute over mining rights and pledges, and it was never rebuilt, being called a Burgstall in 1480.

The fortress reflects building approaches typical of Black Forest fortifications and shows how defensive structures took shape in this region. The site shapes the valley landscape and connects to the stories of people who lived here.

The ascent follows the historic access path, a long serpentine route along the north flank reinforced by remnants of retaining walls. Below the main plateau the trail crosses a rock terrace, probably the former outer bailey, before stone steps lead up to the summit plateau. The rock outcrops and wall remains demand sure footing.

The castle site spans three separate rock outcrops. The westernmost holds the remains of a square tower about 2.70 m wide with walls roughly 1.70 m thick; a deep cleft separates it from the middle rock, where no traces of occupation are visible. The main plateau lies on the eastern rock.