Königstein's current landmark was built in the twelfth century - at the time of King Barbarossa - to protect the once important trade route between Frankfurt and Cologne, before the castle was converted into a fortress by the Counts of Stollberg in the 16th century. During the Revolutionary Wars, the fortress was badly damaged by French troops in 1796. Historians suspect, however, that the current level of destruction is due more to the Königstein population: it is reported that the local population procured building materials for numerous houses in today's old town.

In 1922, Hilda von Baden, the daughter of the last King of Nassau, finally donated the ruins to the town of Königsstein.

Most of the cellars in the ruins are still well preserved and can therefore be visited and explored. The dark vaults and arches in particular, as well as the romantic inner courtyard, underline the extraordinary charm of the castle. A particular highlight is the accessible tower, which offers a magnificent view of the Taunus and the Rhine-Main plain.

A visit is particularly worthwhile in the summer months: numerous events take place at this time of year - mostly in the open air - ranging from knights' tournaments, music and cinema events to the castle festival.