Königstein, Rock formation in Thale, Germany

Königstein is a roughly 500-metre-long wall-like rock formation of the Teufelsmauer, running northwest to southeast north of the Bode between Weddersleben and Neinstedt. Its highest point is the Adlerfelsen at 185 m above sea level; at the western end stands the Teufel, also called Westturm, and further east lie the Großmutter and the Lange Wand.

The name Königstein derives from Kehnstein, meaning 'announcement stone'. In September 1784 Goethe and painter Georg Melchior Kraus visited; a Goethestein on the south side marks this. In June 1833 district administrator Carl Weyhe placed the rock under protection, ending its long use as a quarry.

The name derives from Kehnstein, meaning "announcement stone". On the south side stands the Goethestein, marking Goethe's September 1784 visit with painter Georg Melchior Kraus; nearby rocks bear historical carvings, including a treble clef and a curved letter W. A memorial stone recalls an unknown German soldier once buried here.

The rock is accessible from Thale via marked hiking trails, with parking available near the starting points. Those wanting to reach the summit for views should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

The sandstone layers of Königstein display different colors and patterns created by various depositional phases. These visual differences make it possible to see the geological history of each layer while walking around the formation.