And indeed, there are many relics steeped in history here. Researchers have discovered that the oldest earthen ramparts date back to around the time of Christ’s birth, when Germanic tribes encountered the Celts. At that time, the earthworks provided protection against invading enemies. In the eighth and ninth centuries, around the time Charlemagne ruled the Frankish Empire, a walled fortress was built as a fortification, which presumably served as a staging post for Frankish troops.
The ruins of the Borberg terraces still hold a powerful fascination today—and they tell a story. According to the annals, the town on the “Borrenberge” is also said to have had a small nunnery. Excavations have uncovered the foundation walls of a church, the gate, and the foundations of a chapel and a cemetery dating from the 13th century.
Hikers on the Borberg along the Rothaarsteig enjoy the beautiful, shady Buchenwald. The Marienkapelle, also known as the Friedenskapelle, is well worth a visit. It has stood high on the cliff since 1925.
The Borberg cemetery is located along the Rothaarsteig and is accessible on foot. It’s a half-hour hike from the hiking parking lot near the Hiebammenhütte in Brilon or the Waldhotel Schinkenwirt in Olsberg.
The Borberg is also a spiritual destination among the Sauerland-Wanderdörfer.
