Ringwall der Marienburg bei Nordstemmen, Medieval hillfort in Schulenburg, Germany.
Ringwall der Marienburg is a medieval fortified settlement perched on a hilltop, featuring circular earthwork walls that encircle the summit. The site contains multiple defensive rings separated by ditches, creating a layered system of protection.
The fortification was first built by early settlers and research indicates it was occupied from the 8th to 12th centuries. The exact origins remain uncertain, as archaeological evidence suggests multiple periods of use across different eras.
The fortification served as a defensive center and gathering place for the local population across medieval times. The earthwork remains a visible landmark in the landscape, reflecting how earlier inhabitants shaped their surroundings.
The site sits on a hilltop and is accessible on foot, with the climb to the summit taking around 15 to 20 minutes. Some sections of the walls are steep and muddy areas can be slippery, particularly after rain.
A natural spring on the eastern side of the walls provided drinking water for inhabitants and allowed them to remain on the hilltop for extended periods. This water source made the location strategically valuable and helped residents withstand sieges.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.