Sparrenburg Castle

　　Sparrenburg Castle is located on the outskirts of Bielefeld in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, and is the city’s most prominent landmark. This formidable fortress lies adjacent to one of Germany’s most beautiful highland hiking trails, the 156-kilometer-long Hermannsweg.

　　Built between 1240 and 1250 by the Counts of Ravensberg, Sparrenburg is the oldest landmark of the city of Bielefeld. It sits atop a hill in the Teutoburg Forest, towering impressively over the city. Originally serving as an administrative headquarters and residence for the ruling counts, as well as for securing the city and the Bielefeld Pass trade route, it withstood numerous sieges and was never captured. The current structure largely dates from renovations and reconstructions carried out between the 16th and 19th centuries.

　　Today, visitors to the restored castle can enjoy panoramic views of Bielefeld and the surrounding area. From April to October, the 300-meter-long network of underground passages can be explored; these tunnels connect the northwest and southeast sections of the fortress. The castle also serves as the stage for the annual medieval Sparrenburg Festival, which leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

　　Sparrenburg Castle Must-visit reason: The oldest landmark of Bielefeld Continent: Europe Country/Region: Germany Province/State: North Rhine-Westphalia City: Bielefeld