Hardenstein Castle in Witten is a picturesque ruin located on one of the most beautiful stretches of the Ruhr in the Muttental. The castle was built between 1345 and 1354 by the noble Hardenberg family. Originally designed as a simple tower house, the castle was expanded over the centuries. The two southern round towers, which were added in the middle of the 15th century, are particularly striking.
The castle served as a residence until the 16th century, before it increasingly fell into disrepair. Today, parts of the hall chamber, the fireplace, and parts of the ring wall and the gate systems are still preserved. Since 1974, the Hardenstein Castle Friends Association has been looking after the preservation and restoration of the ruins.
The castle can be reached on foot, by bike or on the museum train of the Bochum-Dahlhausen Railway Museum. You can also cross the river on the Ruhr Valley ferry and take a break in the nearby royal Prussian lock keeper's house, which is known for its culinary offerings.
For visitors, Hardenstein Castle not only offers an insight into medieval history, but also a connection to the mining history of the Ruhr region. The ruins are an ideal destination for families, hikers and history buffs.