Plizio Visual Lab
Externsteine
The Externsteine in the Teutoburg Forest are a striking sandstone formation consisting of five distinct rock towers that rise up to 40 meters high. This natural landmark is not only geologically fascinating but also serves as a significant historical and cultic site. The most outstanding cultural testimony is the monumental relief of the Descent from the Cross, dating to the 12th century, which was carved directly into the rock face. Archaeological investigations suggest that the stones were utilized by humans as far back as the Stone Age. Additionally, there are numerous speculations regarding the site's astronomical significance, particularly concerning the alignment of certain rock apertures during the solstices. For centuries, the Externsteine have been a place of spirituality, today attracting history enthusiasts and esoteric followers alike. The surrounding landscape has been under nature protection since 1926 and features diverse hiking trails.
- Location: North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
- Top sights: Externsteine · Wackelstein · Höhenkammer
- Nearby: Detmold (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 80 | 58 | 56 | 44 | 66 | 69 | 78 | 74 | 59 | 63 | 71 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The highest rock tower rises 40 meters high
- Descent from the Cross relief created around 1150
- First documented mention in the year 1093
- Nature reserve exists since the year 1926
- Consists of Osning sandstone from the Lower Cretaceous
- The grotto and rock chapel are artificially created
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Externsteine (10)
Grotte
Natural cave in the Externsteine rocks, accessible to visitors.
Knickenhagen
Hill in Horn-Bad Meinberg, Germany, part of the landscape around the Externsteine.
Bärenstein
Hill near Horn-Bad Meinberg, Germany, with a view.
Kleiner Rigi
Mountain in the region, named after the Swiss Rigi, with hiking trails.
Kirche Holzhausen
Church building in Holzhausen-Externsteine, used for services.
Römerweg
Excavation site of a historic sunken lane, possibly a Roman road or medieval path.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are you allowed to climb the rocks?
What is the famous relief on the rocks?
Are the Externsteine a cult site?
Is there a parking fee?
How much time should I plan for the visit?
Externsteine: where is it located?
Externsteine: what is there to see?
Externsteine: when is the best time to visit?
Externsteine: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
