Burg Hauenstein, Medieval castle ruins in Laufenburg, Germany
Burg Hauenstein is a castle fortification perched on a porphyry rock ridge approximately 330 meters above sea level near Laufenburg. The site consists of several sections with variously preserved walls and foundations that reveal the original layout of the stronghold.
The castle originated in the early medieval period and later served as an imperial fief and administrative center of the Waldvogtei in Hauenstein County. It protected the holdings of Säckingen monastery until its importance declined around 1500.
The ruins display features from different building periods, with the southwestern section showing the oldest traces from the 10th or 11th century. Visitors can still see these layers in the remaining walls today and understand how the fortification expanded over the centuries.
A footpath leads up from the southwest and allows access to the castle grounds. The surrounding ramparts and ditches are still visible and help orient visitors as they explore the ruins.
On the northwest side remain traces of an artificial pond, a rare addition to typical castle defenses. This water feature was likely part of the defensive strategy and stored resources for extended sieges.
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