Altena Castle, Medieval hilltop castle in Altena, North Rhine-Westphalia

Altena Castle is a medieval fortress positioned on the Klusenberg slope that overlooks the Lenne River valley. The structure features multiple towers and fortified walls that showcase medieval defensive architecture.

Brothers Adolf and Everhard von Berg built the castle in 1108 after receiving land from Henry V. The structure became a symbol of aristocratic power in the region and shaped the landscape for centuries.

The Museum of the County of Mark displays artifacts from different periods of the region's past, from prehistoric times through the industrial era. The collection tells stories about how people lived and shaped their surroundings over centuries.

An elevator from below connects the old town directly to the castle and saves a steep climb. Visitors can arrive at the top and explore the grounds at their own pace without significant effort.

Richard Schirrmann opened the world's first youth hostel here in 1914, which later sparked a global network for young travelers. This location was the birthplace of a movement that enabled millions of young people to explore the world.

• Location: Altena
• Inception: 1100
• Address: Fritz-Thomée-Str. 80, 58762 Altena
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]
• Website: https://burg-altena.de
• GPS coordinates: 51.29994,7.67513
• Latest update: December 20, 2025 02:53