04/06/2026
The Steine are a group of striking volcanic rock formations located in the Sauerland region of western Germany, near the town of Olsberg.
Brief History
• The rocks were formed around 370 million years ago during the Devonian period from volcanic activity and later shaped by erosion.
• Due to their elevated position and natural defenses, people built a hillfort around the Bruchhauser Steine during the Iron Age (around the 5th century BC).
• Archaeological excavations have uncovered fortification walls, tools, weapons, and other artifacts, showing that the site served as a refuge and strategic lookout point.
• During the early medieval period, the hillfort was reused intermittently, although it eventually lost its military importance.
• Today, the Bruchhauser Steine are a protected nature reserve and a popular destination for hiking, wildlife observation, and learning about the region’s geological and archaeological heritage.
The four main rock towers are known as:
1. Feldstein (the highest)
2. Bornstein
3. Goldstein
4. Ravenstein
The site is also famous as one of the few places in North Rhine-Westphalia where the rare Peregrine Falcon has successfully nested after its reintroduction.
