Burgruine Ringelstein

Castle ruins with magnificent views over the Almetal

Grave finds from the 9th and 10th centuries indicate an early settlement on the mountain spur above the Alme. The date of construction of Ringelstein Castle is uncertain - it was probably not built before 1300. It later became an agricultural outbuilding of the main Büren estate. In 1630 and 1631, the castle was the scene of numerous witch trials. It probably burned down around 1800 and was partially rebuilt as an artificial ruin after 1899. However, it quickly lost its significance and sank into a deep sleep for several decades.

In 1979, the ruins of Ringelstein Castle were brought back to life. In many hours of voluntary work, a first cellar was uncovered by the Harth association. Due to the historical background of the castle, the cellar was soon popularly known as the "witches' cellar". In the summer of 2005, construction work was resumed and further restoration and excavation work was carried out. So far, a second cellar, old foundations and other historical masonry have been discovered.