Richard Schirrmann founded the first permanent youth hostel here in 1914, which remains a key part of the current museum exhibits.
The castle features a dedicated museum focused on the history of the German Youth Hostel movement.
It is historically connected to the noble House of Berg, who founded the castle to secure their territory in the Sauerland.
The castle’s defensive architecture includes a 'Bergfried' (keep) that was crucial to its strategic 12th-century military function.
It survived the collapse of the Holy Roman Empire and various regional conflicts, undergoing significant restorations in the early 20th century.
The museum collection includes extensive holdings related to the history of the Counts of the Mark.
Altena Castle, established in the early 12th century by the Counts of Berg, is recognized as the birthplace of the world's first youth hostel. The site operates as a multi-thematic history museum featuring collections on regional culture, the German Youth Hostel movement, and medieval history. It is situated on a rocky ridge overlooking the Lenne river valley in the Sauerland region. The structure includes multiple courtyards, a residential wing, and a defensive tower. Visitors move through restored medieval halls containing armories and historical artifacts. The site is maintained by the Märkischer Kreis district and continues to serve as an educational facility.
The view of the Lenne river valley from the outer curtain wall.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the steep, cobbled paths leading up to the castle gate.
Use the 'Erlebnisaufzug' (adventure elevator) located in the town center to reach the castle hill comfortably.
Check the museum website for temporary exhibition schedules before visiting to ensure access to specific galleries.
Attempting to drive a large vehicle directly to the castle gates; parking is limited to the town level.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
