Burgruine Tachenstein

Riedenburg, Germany, Germany

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Burgruine Tachenstein is a medieval castle ruin overlooking Riedenburg in Bavaria’s Altmühl Valley.

The castle was built in the late 12th century, probably between 1170 and 1180, and was first mentioned in historical records in 1189. It occupied a strategic position on a rocky spur high above the valley and was associated with regional noble families and later the Dukes of Bavaria. Over the centuries, the fortress changed owners several times and gradually lost its importance.

By the early 17th century it was already described as largely fallen into ruin, and by the 16th century it was generally regarded as a decaying stronghold. Today, visitors can see the remains of the keep, sections of the defensive walls, and the impressive rock-cut ditch that once protected the castle. The ruin is a popular viewpoint and forms part of Riedenburg’s well-known Three Castles Trail, offering scenic views of the surrounding Altmühl Valley landscape.