Riesenstein

Riesenstein is a large upright block of quartzite standing near the Eder River, rising about 4.7 meters (15 feet) tall and spanning 4.6 meters (15 feet) wide. The rectangular stone consists of hard Miocene quartzite and forms one of the largest standalone rock formations in the area.

The area beneath this stone held remains from the Stone Age, reaching back to roughly 3000 BC. The first written mention of the formation appeared in historical records from 1615.

The stone appears in local folklore through giant tales, where massive beings battled monks or competed for a woman's affection. Such stories give this place a special role in the region's collective memory.

The stone sits along a paved route northeast of the railway bridge, located north of Wolfershausen village. It is easily accessible and serves as a good starting point for walks through the surrounding countryside.

Archaeologists long debated whether this stone grew in place or was moved there from elsewhere, treating it like a geological puzzle. This mystery continues to intrigue visitors today who come seeking answers about its true origin.

Location: Schwalm-Eder-Kreis

Made from material: quartzite

GPS coordinates: 51.19249,9.44416

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:25