The town of Ranis is located in the Saale-Orla district, on the edge of the Thuringian Slate Mountains and the broad Orlasenke. Surrounded by forest and a landscape conservation area, which includes unique Zechstein reefs. The scenic location not far from the Hohenwarte Saale dam and the imposing castle perched on a steep cliff high above the old town attract thousands of visitors every year. The history of the castle and town is closely interwoven and can be traced back over 800 years.