Altes Schloss zu Hohenbaden

Baden-Baden, Germany, Germany

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Altes Schloss zu Hohenbaden in Baden-Baden, Germany, is one of the oldest residences of the powerful Margraves of Baden, built around 1100 by Herman II on the southwestern crest of Battert hill in the Black Forest as part of three strategic castles defending their territory. Expanded in Gothic style under Margrave Bernard I (1372–1431) and peaking with around 100 rooms, it served as the main seat for nearly 400 years until Margrave Christopher I shifted to the New Castle in town in 1479, after which fire destroyed much of it in 1599, leaving impressive ruins. Today, the vast site offers steep climbs to explore remnants like the upper castle, knight's hall, tower, and secret dungeons amid panoramic views over Baden-Baden, the Rhine Valley, and surrounding hills, with a restaurant, beer garden, and hiking trails popular since its 19th-century revival as a spa-era attraction.