The Kohlstädt castle ruins, also known as the Kleine Herrenburg, are a historical monument that were probably built between the 11th and 12th centuries. It is located in the southern Teutoburg Forest, more precisely in the Lippe town of Kohlstädt in the municipality of Schwerte, near the banks of the Strothe stream. The ruin stands today as evidence of various uses over the centuries, including practical applications such as an iron smelter or a lime kiln, but also mythical interpretations such as a pagan church from pre-Christian times or a tower of the Veleda. In 1704, treasure diggers who searched the site for hidden treasures using special rituals were punished. Historically, the castle served as a customs and supply station that protected and controlled the pass over the Kleine Egge and the crossing point on Sennehellweg.
The architectural remains of the castle show sturdy, almost 2.40 meter thick masonry with defensive slots that were typical of the time. The walls were built using a special technique called fake herringbone pattern. Remains of the square defensive tower, which led to the upper floors via a spiral staircase, are still visible today. In addition, the foundations of an outbuilding attached to the tower have been preserved.
Kohlstädt Castle was built as an early medieval tower castle on an artificially raised hill. The approximately square residential tower originally had sides of around 12 meters and walls that were 2.40 meters thick. A large living area with a hearth was attached to the residential tower. The castle's function as a pass barrier over the Egge Mountains was taken over by the larger castles Horn and Falkenburg in the 14th century, after which the complex was abandoned.
Today the ruin is not open to entry due to its dilapidation, but viewing from the outside is possible without restrictions and free of charge. The castle is located on Lippspringer Straße and is easily accessible for those interested via the B1 from Paderborn towards Detmold.