Ilsestein

The Harz Mountains have a whole host of impressive rock formations rock formations, stones and other natural spectacles to offer. However, only a few of them can boast such an extensive history and legends as the Ilsestein. Here authors, poets and artists found their inspiration here, and almost 1000 years ago, the first rulers exercised their control over the Harz from here. Harz from here. Today, the Ilsestein is above all one of the most popular destinations in the Harz Mountains and offers a great opportunity to combine nature with the the diverse history of the Harz Mountains.

The Ilsestein in the the course of history

The Ilsestein is a formation of granite rocks that lies around two kilometres south-west of two kilometres southwest of Ilsenburg and can now be reached via a number of hiking trails. hiking trails can be reached via a number of hiking trails. It is primarily the striking shape of the rock that has probably ensured that artists have always felt a certain connection to this landmark. to this landmark. The rock itself is one of the smaller formations in the Harz Mountains in the Harz Mountains and yet has developed into an important landmark over the centuries and was already an important waypoint for people travelling through the Harz people travelling through the Harz Mountains.

The ascent to the Ilsestein itself leads mainly through forests. Even Heinrich Heine described the Ilsestein and the surrounding forests in his surrounding forests. The summit cross, which is still preserved, was already an an important landmark back then. From there you have an excellent view of view of Ilsenburg and the valley below, and on a good day you can see far into this far into this Harz landscape. However, caution is advised on the the rocky path - it is narrow and the ascent is therefore quite a challenge. challenge.

The former castle ruins on the Ilsestein

A castle is said to have stood here as early as around 1100, built on the orders of King Henry. built on the orders of King Henry. Its main purpose was to guard the the surrounding countryside. However, the garrison is also said to have raids on the nearby monastery. Presumably one reason reason why the castle was finally destroyed in 1107 by order of the pope. destroyed by order of the Pope.

For many hundreds of years, the former fortification fell into oblivion and traces of it only reappeared in the 19th century. Smaller remains of the of the walls have been preserved to this day and a model of the former castle show the former castle. How accurate the representation is, however, is controversial. It was more likely a smaller fortress that was more of a makeshift was more of a temporary structure.

Legends and tales around the Ilsestein

As is typical of the Harz Mountains and its landmarks, there are of course many legends about the Ilsestein a multitude of legends. These may have been one reason why that so many artists and writers have been drawn here. There is for example the legend of a jealous giant whose blow was responsible for the the distinctive shape and appearance of the Ilsestein. is said to be. Many events related to Harz culture still take place here today and this is one of many reasons why there are so many hikers in the area. in the area.

The hike to the Ilsestein itself can be undertaken in different ways. be undertaken. Both from Ilsenburg and from the Prinzess-Ilse spring, there are various paths that lead up to the massif. massif. However, you should bear in mind before the hike that there are a few metres metres in altitude to overcome. Beginners should therefore make appropriate preparations preparation and be prepared for a challenging hike. In the summer months, there is also a small bus service that takes you to the immediate vicinity, from where a hike to the Ilsestein is much easier. Ilsestein is much easier. There are car parks at the starting points of the typical hiking trails and an ascent by bike should be possible for experienced cyclists. should be possible for experienced cyclists.

In the summer months, the Ilsestein service area provides hungry and thirsty hikers with thirsty hikers with good food and a little rest after the ascent. ascent. Anyone who has decided to hike to the Ilsestein should definitely take the opportunity to visit the monasteryand the nearby town. and the nearby town. The historic buildings are still closely closely linked to the Ilsestein and Heinrich Heine in particular - whose quotes are can be found everywhere in the area in the form of plaques - plays an important important role in the surroundings of the Ilsestein.