Hardenstein Castle, Medieval castle ruins near Herbede, Germany
Hardenstein Castle is a ruin on the Ruhr River banks, with remains consisting mainly of two round towers and stone walls. The site sits within a wooded setting near the river and offers views across the surrounding landscape.
The castle emerged in the 14th century and quickly became a mining center in the region. It played an important role in the medieval economy of the Ruhr area before eventually declining.
The castle is connected to local legends about a dwarf king who supposedly lived within its walls according to tradition. These stories have been preserved in regional memory for centuries and continue to shape how people perceive the ruins.
The site is accessible via marked paths within the surrounding park and makes for a pleasant walk along the river. The remote location requires some planning for how to arrive, so checking route options beforehand is advisable.
According to a record from 1850, a dwarf king named Goldemar reportedly brought prosperity to the castle for three years. That period ended when someone attempted to uncover the secrets of this mysterious figure.
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