Burgruine Rothenstein

Bad Grönenbach, Germany, Germany

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Burgruine Rothenstein is the remains of a medieval hilltop castle located near Bad Grönenbach in Bavaria’s Allgäu region.

Thought to date back to the early 11th century and first mentioned in 1037, it is considered one of the oldest documented castles in the Allgäu and was originally the seat of the Lords of Rothenstein. Over the centuries, the castle passed through the hands of several noble families, including the Pappenheim family, and was repeatedly expanded and fortified.

After losing its importance, the site declined, and a major landslide in 1873 caused much of the structure to collapse, leaving only ruins behind. Today, visitors can explore the surviving walls, foundations, and defensive earthworks surrounded by woodland. The ruin is valued as a historic monument and offers a glimpse into the region’s medieval past as well as scenic views of the surrounding countryside.