Hohentwiel Fortress in Hegau is located on top of a volcano near Lake Constance. At nine hectares, it is the largest ruin in all of Germany.
Story
The fortress on the Hohentwiel has undergone many changes in the course of its history. Originally mentioned as a fortification in 915, it was subsequently owned by various noble families, including the Zähringen and Klingenberg families. At first the fortress was also an early medieval ducal seat and later a simple high medieval castle.
In the 16th century, Hohentwiel came more and more under the influence and rule of the Württembergers, and the castle once again became a ducal seat. In the following centuries, the complex was expanded into a Württemberg state fortress and was unsuccessfully besieged five times during the Thirty Years' War. After the war, the fortress served as a state prison until it was destroyed in 1801 in the War of the Second Coalition.
Despite the destruction of the fortress, the ruins quickly became a tourist attraction. Today, Hohentwiel Fortress offers visitors a fascinating journey into the past as they explore the impressive ruins and their history. From the top of the mountain, there are also breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The Welcome Book
Since 1652, visitors to Hohentwiel Fortress have been required to sign a welcome book. Over time, around 900 rhymes and sayings in various languages have filled the book. In addition to higher-ranking visitors, officers of the fortress, priests and religious dignitaries, as well as young noblemen who visited Hohentwiel on their cavalier tour in the 18th century also immortalized themselves. Many of the entries also refer to the custom of "stone-hauling": Since a lot of building material was needed on Hohentwiel, every visitor was expected to carry a stone weighing at least 30 to 40 pounds.
Access
The castle can be reached quickly from the car park near Hohentwiel. However, it is worth walking around the castle complex and looking at the gem from different angles and enjoying the view of Lake Constance to the full. A special highlight of the Hohentwiel Fortress is its cultural significance. Every year, numerous concerts and theater performances take place here, with the backdrop of the ruins creating a unique atmosphere.
