Burg Regenstein

The ruins of Regenstein Castle are enthroned on a large sandstone rock near Blankenburg in the Harz Mountains, surrounded by numerous artificial rock caves that were created in the Middle Ages and have survived all the battles surrounding the castle. The castle extends over a 2.5 kilometre long and up to 295 metre high sandstone formation, which dates back to the Cretaceous period. Finds from the Stone Age, Bronze Age and Iron Age bear witness to the use of the rock barrier in prehistoric times. However, it is still not clear whether it was used as a place of worship or a dwelling.

The legend and history of Regenstein Castle

The castle was first mentioned in 1162 in connection with Count Konrad von Regenstein. It became particularly famous in the 1330s under Albrecht II von Regenstein due to disputes with other rulers. According to legend, Regenstein Castle was built in 479 by the knight Hatebold from Veckenstedt. During the battles between Thuringia and Saxony during the Migration Period, i.e. late antiquity, the castle stood for a long time and was taken over by the Counts of Landesteil.

In the 15th century, the Regensteins left the castle and moved to Blankenburg Castle, as a result of which the castle gradually fell into disrepair. After several changes of ownership over time, the castle was finally lent to Count Wilhelm von Tattenbach from Lower Bavaria in 1643. Later, in 1671, the Prussians converted the castle into a fortress. The area around today's ruins was extensively remodelled, of which the castle was only a small part. The castle complex was severely damaged by a lightning strike to the powder tower in 1736 and underwent several expansions over the years. In 1757, the French finally occupied Regenstein Castle, but the Prussians succeeded in recapturing and destroying it just a few months later.

Another legend surrounding Regenstein Castle says that a beautiful maiden was once held captive in the castle dungeon because she refused to marry the Count of Regenstein. In order to escape, she spent a year scratching a crack in the rock with her diamond ring. On her return to the castle, she found the count in purgatory. To redeem him, she threw him the ring.

The castle and fortress as an excursion destination

The remains of the once imposing Regenstein Castle near Blankenburg today give the impression that they have melted into the rock below. Today, only the remains of the keep and the rooms carved into the rock are reminders of the once imposing fortress. Those interested in culture and history will particularly enjoy the exhibition of artefacts from the area around the castle. Also worth mentioning in this context is the former castle well, which was unfortunately filled in in 1885 due to the danger of collapsing masonry. Until then, it was considered the deepest castle well in the world with a depth of around 197 metres.

Exciting guided tours await you in the castle ruins to bring you closer to the eventful history of the castle and fortress complex. In the open-air museum of the castle ruins, you will also find various exhibits that bring the history of the castle ruins to life. Of particular relevance to younger visitors is the fact that free Wi-Fi is available throughout the site. Young visitors can playfully discover the history of the castle together with the four friends of the so-called "Brockenbande" on a total of five child-friendly boards. They tell exciting stories and offer small tasks on the way to the castle.

Opening hours and admission prices

The Regenstein castle ruins are open daily from April to October from 10 am to 6 pm, and from November to March from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. For safety reasons, the castle grounds remain closed in bad weather. Adults pay an entrance fee of €4, children over the age of 6 pay €2 and children under the age of 6 are admitted free of charge.

Equipment :

Visitor parking