Burg Rothenfels, a youth hostel and conference centre, is set in the charming countryside of the Spessart nature reserve between Würzburg and Frankfurt. Its history dates back to the 12th century. In 1919 the castle was bought and renovated by the Quickborn Society of Friends. Under Romano Guardini, one of its spiritual leaders, Rothenfels became a centre of religious and cultural education. It was during this period that the architect Rudolf Schwarz created the world-famous ensemble of the Knights' Hall and the Chapel, the atmosphere of which still characterises the castle today.

Today, the Friends of Rothenfels Castle run an educational facility at the castle, including a youth hostel, conference centre and adult education academy. The work is characterised by a fundamental Christian attitude, which is reflected in respect for others, respect for creation and the environment, and great hospitality.

For decades the castle has been a home for dance and music in many different forms. In the 1980s and 1990s, Rothenfels also became a centre for historical dance, inspiring the formation of many dance groups throughout Germany. The first Historical Dance Symposium was organised here in 2004 and has since been held every four years, attracting dance researchers and enthusiasts from all over the world.