Steinsberg Castle, Medieval castle in Weiler, Germany

Steinsberg Castle is a partly restored medieval hill castle on the 333-metre Steinsberg, a former volcano whose south side is planted with vines. Its centre is a tall octagonal keep of Keuper sandstone, begun after 1220, surrounded by a twelve-sided mantle wall of reed sandstone and lower buildings with steep red tiled roofs. A ring of outer walls encloses the courtyard, where small reddish canopies and outdoor seating stand.

The castle was first documented in 1109 and passed through the hands of different noble families over the centuries. A major 16th-century conflict severely damaged the structure, prompting a substantial reconstruction effort afterward.

The castle is nicknamed the "Compass of the Kraichgau" because it has been visible from afar since the Peasants' War. A relief stone at the entrance to the castle restaurant recalls the rebuilding of 1527, and the many mason's marks in the octagonal keep point to a large building workshop and a short construction period.

The grounds are maintained by the city of Sinsheim and provide access to preserved sections for visitors to explore. Wearing sturdy shoes is recommended as the site involves uneven terrain and hillside walks.

The castle is nicknamed the "Compass of the Kraichgau" because it has been visible from far around since the Peasants' War. Its octagonal keep, built from Keuper sandstone from 1220, carries many stonemasons' marks, pointing to a large workshop and a short construction period.