Sunderburg, Medieval castle ruins in Grafrath, Germany
Sunderburg is a castle site perched on a plateau about 40 meters above the Amper River, with steep slopes protecting its north and east sides. Remaining stone walls stand up to 7 meters high, surrounded by earthen ramparts and ditches that outline the medieval fortress layout.
The site has roots reaching back to the Bronze Age, with excavations between 2003 and 2006 revealing settlement remains from around 1800 to 1600 BCE. Later, the location was developed as a fortified castle by the noble family of Diessen-Andechs.
Local stories connect the site to ancient rituals and disputes from medieval times, shaping how people in the region think about this place. These narratives have become part of the area's cultural memory.
The site is accessible through marked hiking paths that help visitors navigate the ruins with ease. Spring and fall offer the best visiting conditions, with moderate weather and clear views of the structure without dense vegetation blocking the sight.
About 250 meters southwest of the castle stand weathered stones from the Central Alps, which locals call Sacrifice Stones or Blood Stones. These mysterious formations suggest early ritual practices may have taken place at this location.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
