By passing through the South Gate into the inner courtyard of the castle, you can reach the top walk. The first castle known to have existed at Hellenstein was built here at the beginning of the twelfth century. A number of stone remnants recovered in the ruins of the castle walls date from the period of the Staufer dynasty. It is here, in the ruins of the Knights Hall that the opera festivals take place every year. A number of other cultural events draw visitors year after year to this hill top castle. A stroll through the North-eastern Gate leads to the Castle Park, and, from there, back into the city to the church of St. Michael.