Hexenaltar, Granite rock formation on Brocken Mountain, Harz, Germany.
The Hexenaltar is a natural granite formation rising from the Brocken Mountain plateau in the Harz region. The rock blocks stand prominently in the landscape next to another structure called Teufelskanzel.
The formation developed through natural geological processes over thousands of years. In the 19th century during the Kingdom of Westphalia period, reports spread about the collapse of its top stone slab.
The formation connects to local legends about gatherings during Walpurgis Night, shaping how people view this place today. These stories draw visitors interested in the folklore traditions of the region.
The site lies within the core zone of Harz National Park and is currently closed to the public. This closure protects the natural environment and allows the area to regenerate.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe described the geological layering of these rocks in his travel notes while wandering through the Harz region. His observations helped make this formation known in literary and scientific circles.
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