バート・リーベンシュタインの洞窟・トップ20

The Liebenstein castle ruins tower high above the city. Currently closed for renovation work.

Even though only ruins and the keep remain of the almost thousand-year-old hilltop castle, a visit to the observation tower is worth the climb. With a bit of luck, the visit will coincide with one of the cultural events there during mid-summer.

The ruins, which rise majestically above the dense forests, bear witness to the eventful history of the region. The castle was first mentioned in documents in 1137 and is considered one of the oldest stone castles in western Thuringia. Their story, which tells of the objects of exchange and dispute between various noble families, can be felt in every stone. The climb to the castle was an experience in itself. Surrounded by the lush nature of the Thuringian Forest, along clear streams and across sunny meadows, the path led to the ruins. The area around Scharfenburg is a true hiking paradise, full of natural beauty and historical treasures. The natural caves and evidence of late medieval mining in the area were particularly impressive. One of the highlights of my visit was the impressive keep in the center of the castle complex, which today serves as a lookout tower. From the tower I had a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, including the Inselsberg, the Wartburg and the Hörselberge. The tower's observation deck, which was restored in 2006 and equipped with modern elements, offered a unique panoramic view that was more than worth the climb. The Scharfenburg, now a registered cultural monument and owned by the city of Ruhla, is not only a popular excursion destination, but also a venue for various cultural events. The historic atmosphere of the ruins, combined with the picturesque surroundings, make it a place full of magic and history.

It's also worth taking a look into the dungeon🙃

Opening hours: April-Sept. 9am-8pm and Oct-March 10am-4pm ... the view is great 😊 it's worth it

The detour is worth it. The tower is open until 8 p.m. from May to September and until 4 p.m. the rest of the time. Nice view with a view of the Inselsberg.

The Scharfenberg castle ruins are a tourist destination in the Ruhla district of Thal. From the platform of the castle tower you can enjoy a beautiful view of Thal and Seebach.

The castle was probably built in the High Middle Ages by the Lords of Frankenstein, who resided near Bad Salzungen, as an outpost. After it passed to the Wettin dynasty, the Lords vom Stein zu Altenstein received the castle as a fief and rebuilt it. Hermann vom Stein oversaw its expansion in the Renaissance style around 1599. Around 1800, under the influence of Romanticism, efforts began to restore the now ruined complex. The Dukes of Saxe-Meiningen appreciated its appearance within sight of the landscaped park surrounding their summer residence, Altenstein Castle. (Source: Information panel of the Thuringian Castles and Gardens Foundation)