Steinhart Castle (Ruin)

The origins of Steinhart Castle date back to the 12th century. It was likely built around 1120 by Marquard Spet de Steinenhart, whose family, the Spete, was mentioned in several documents in the following decades. In 1282, the Spete's property was divided. It is presumed that the original "Old Castle" was destroyed in a conflict over Eichstätt feuds and not rebuilt. The Jewish Cemetery was later established on its site. In 1328, Herman Spet received permission to construct a new fortress, which is today's Steinhart Ruin. After 1339, the castle changed hands multiple times, coming into the possession of the Counts of Öttingen and the Gundelsheim family, among others.