Burg Schweinberg, Castle ruin in Hardheim, Germany
Burg Schweinberg is a castle ruin perched on a limestone ridge in the eastern Odenwald region near Hardheim. The site commands views across the surrounding landscape with its surviving keep and wall sections that reveal the layout of its defensive structure.
The castle first appears in written records in 1098 as the stronghold of the noble family of Schweinberg. After the death of the last family member in 1167, the site changed hands repeatedly and gradually fell into ruin over subsequent centuries.
The ruin bears the name of the noble family who ruled here, and their legacy continues to shape local identity. The settlement itself grew up in direct connection to this fortified residence, which defined regional life for centuries.
The ruin remains accessible year-round at no cost, allowing visitors to explore freely at their own pace. Parking is available in the village center of Schweinberg, from which walking paths lead up to the site.
A decorative double-arched window from the original fortress was removed and now resides in the Baden State Museum in Karlsruhe. This salvaged element showcases the skilled stonework and ornamental details that characterized the structure.
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