Castle ruins Falkenstein
The romantic castle ruins tower proudly and powerfully over the wine village.
The history of Falkenstein Castle is as old as the settlement of the Weinviertel under Emperor Heinrich III in the middle of the 11th century. As a border fortress to the north, it once protected the country from incursions from Bohemia and Hungary. The first Lords of Falkenstein were enfeoffed by the Babenbergs. For centuries, Falkenstein Castle was a feudal and pledged dominion of the sovereigns until it became privately owned in 1571. In 1645 the castle was conquered by the Swedes, but not destroyed. Decay only started at the end of the 17th century. a.
Under the current owner Georg Thurn-Vrints, the castle ruins were reopened to visitors and a conservation association was founded.
The ruins of Falkenstein Castle are under monument protection, occasionally archaeological excavations are carried out under the direction of the Federal Monuments Office. In summer, the large tournament courtyard becomes an atmospheric setting for various festivals and events.
During the guided tour, the old walls reveal their secrets. You will learn interesting facts about the building history of the castle and its inhabitants, you see
a natural cave in the limestone and an intact vault from the
13th century, where a medieval panel and a small museum with finds illustrate medieval life.