Hohenurach Castle

Hohenurach Castle is a medieval fortress ruin perched on a hilltop above Bad Urach, with portions of the original stone walls and a defensive tower still visible. The remaining structures give a sense of the fortified complex that once occupied this elevated location.

Construction began between 1030 and 1050 under the Counts of Urach as a strategic fortress for the region. Over time the structure changed hands and purposes, eventually becoming unsuitable for military defense after a catastrophic incident in the late 1600s.

The fortress was a seat of power for the Counts of Urach during the medieval period and represented their control over the surrounding lands. The remaining stone structure still conveys the importance this place once held for local rulers.

The ruins are reachable on foot via a hiking trail starting from Bad Urach, a walk of about 45 minutes through countryside. The path is clearly marked and offers good views as you climb, making it suitable for a half-day outing.

A lightning strike in 1694 destroyed the powder tower in a powerful explosion that forever changed the fortress. This dramatic event ended its military chapter and transformed it into a striking reminder of a vanished era.

Location: Bad Urach

Inception: 1030

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Website: https://badurach-tourismus.de/Media/Attraktionen/Burgruine-Hohenurach

GPS coordinates: 48.49354,9.37841

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:40