The small medieval half-timbered town of Stolberg is romantically nestled in four narrow valleys at an elevation of 300 to 350 m above sea level in the southern Harz Mountains. Situated on the scenic route of the German Half-Timbered Houses Route, the birthplace of Thomas Müntzer and Countess Juliana - ancestress of the Dutch royal family - is surrounded by beautiful countryside and has a cohesive townscape consisting of more than 380 half-timbered houses dating back four centuries. Since 1993 it has held the title of " Historic European City" and maintains numerous friendly contacts with various European cities.
Stolberg Castle towers high above the town on a mountain spur. As the town's landmark, it served as the residence of the counts and princes of Stolberg from 1201 to 1945. Nowadays the castle is open to visitors as a museum and presents its impressive history in the restored rooms of the building.
The "Old Mint" museum is also worth seeing. Built in 1535 as a workshop and residential building, the half-timbered house houses a completely preserved coin workshop that is unique in Europe and is even operated on guided tours today.
The Joseph's Cross on the 580-metre-high Auerberg hill is the largest iron double cross in the world and offers an indescribable view from the Kyffhäuser Mountains to Mount Brocken. The various circular hiking trails of the well-developed hiking network also offer fascinating views of the town time and again.
For those seeking water fun and relaxation, the Thyragrotte leisure pool in Stolberg is the ideal place to go. With various water attractions, a wide water slide and an outdoor slide, the whirlpool and a spacious sauna area, there is something for everyone.
