Bardenburg

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Lower Saxony, Germany, the Bardenburg, also known as Sachsenwall, is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the early medieval fortifications of the region. Located on the Reremberg at the northern edge of the Teutoburg Forest, south of the town of Georgsmarienhütte, this ancient hillfort is a testament to the strategic military architecture of the Carolingian era.

The History of Bardenburg

The Bardenburg's origins can be traced back to the late early Middle Ages, specifically to the Carolingian period. The fortification is characterized by its two-part structure, consisting of a main castle and a fore-castle. Initially, the entire complex was constructed in a single phase, but subsequent modifications were made to enhance its defensive capabilities. During the second phase, the deteriorated wall, which had eroded to a height of 0.8 meters, was rebuilt, except for a short section on the steep southern slope. The moat surrounding the east gate was deepened and widened, and the gate itself was likely converted into a chamber gate.

The earliest documented mention of the Bardenburg dates back to around 1184 when Count Simon I of Tecklenburg transferred ownership of the fortification to the Oesede Monastery, which was founded in 1170. This historical reference has often been used to date the younger phase of the fortification, although definitive evidence is lacking.

Archaeological exploration of the Bardenburg began in 1891 with an excavation led by Carl Schuchhardt. This was followed by another excavation in 1910 by Friedrich Knoke. More recently, in 1984/85, the Osnabrück District Archaeology conducted an excavation under the direction of Wolfgang Schlüter. Despite these efforts, no datable finds have been uncovered during the excavations.

Exploring Bardenburg

The Bardenburg is an approximately oval-shaped hillfort, measuring about 260 meters in length and 100 meters in width. A transverse wall separates the smaller main castle in the east from the larger fore-castle in the west. Gate structures can be identified in the middle of the north side of the fore-castle, in the east of the main castle, and in the middle of the transverse wall. The gate in the fore-castle wall was a simple passage, while the east gate was likely constructed as a chamber gate.

In its initial phase, the wall was made of a wood-earth construction, with the front reinforced by wooden posts placed at large intervals. A 2-3 meter wide and 1 meter deep pointed ditch was located in front of the wall. The ramp-like backfill of the wall was about 5 meters wide. In the second phase, the decayed wall was raised with bleached sand, which was heavily mixed with the underlying rock. Today, the walls are still 10 meters wide and about 2 meters high. It is highly likely that a breastwork once stood on the crown of the wall.

Immersing in Nature and History

Visitors to the Bardenburg can enjoy a unique combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The fortification is surrounded by the lush greenery of the Teutoburg Forest, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. A walk through the forested area offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life, while the remnants of the ancient walls evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity about the lives of those who once inhabited this strategic stronghold.

Preserving the Past

The Bardenburg is a valuable archaeological site that provides insight into the early medieval fortifications of the region. Efforts to preserve and study the site continue, with ongoing research aimed at uncovering more about its history and significance. The fortification is a protected cultural monument, and visitors are encouraged to respect the site and its surroundings.

In conclusion, the Bardenburg is not just a historical monument; it is a portal to the past, offering a tangible connection to the early medieval period. Its walls, though weathered by time, stand as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of those who built and defended this strategic stronghold. A visit to the Bardenburg is a journey through history, set against the backdrop of the stunning Teutoburg Forest, making it an unmissable destination for anyone exploring the rich cultural heritage of Lower Saxony.