As a hilltop castle largely preserved in its original medieval state, Hohenlimburg Castle offers an authentic insight into the history of the region. The outer bailey and main castle and in particular the palas, gatehouses, curtain walls and keep from the 13th and 14th centuries as well as various residential and working buildings from the 16th to 18th centuries have been preserved to this day.
One famous exhibit is the mummified "Black Hand", which is the subject of various legends. One thing is certain: The hand, which is missing individual fingers, was found in the rubble of the keep, which was destroyed by a lightning strike in 1811. It is probably a piece of medieval evidence from an unsolved murder investigation that was walled up there. Even apart from this spectacular find, which can be seen in a display case, the keep is significant for the castle. It is the oldest part of the complex and served as the residents' last refuge in the event of an attack. As a lookout tower, it gives people pleasure above all with its magnificent panoramic view over Hagen and the Sauerland region.
