The Fortress Tournament is the highlight in the festival calendar of the Hardenberg family, whose family residence in Niedersachsen has been turned into a location of sporting, gastronomic and cultural highlights. Today, the ruin of the fortress, which is nearly 1000 years old, is enthroned above the premises. Riding fans are electrified when the world elite of show jumpers try to grab the “golden whip” at the foot of the historical ruin of the Hardenberg fortress. For nearly 50 years, this challenging competition has been combining first-class equestrianism with a stylish atmosphere and a down-to-earthness that is typical of Niedersachsen. The historic Hardenberg is considered one of the most beautiful settings in Europe.