Falkenstein Castle, Medieval castle in Obervellach, Austria
Falkenstein Castle is a fortress on a rocky ridge above the Möll Valley, consisting of a square four-story keep with defensive walls and arched pillars. The structure was designed to dominate the mountain pass below and monitor the valleys beneath.
The fortress was established in 1164 by the Lords of Falkenstein, originally named Valchenstain, to control the strategic mountain passage. This location in the valley made the castle a key control point for trade and movement in the region.
The chapel dedicated to John the Baptist forms the spiritual center of the castle and displays Baroque renovations from the 18th century. Visitors notice how religious life continues within these walls despite the castle's remote mountain location.
The lower section is accessible to visitors during summer months, while the upper section remains as preserved ruins. Sturdy footwear is recommended as the path to the castle is steep and partly rocky.
The Tauern Railway line ran through a tunnel beneath the castle until 1973, when it was replaced by the 396 meter Falkenstein Bridge. This bridge is now a distinctive feature of the landscape and shows how transportation adapted to the terrain.
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