Alt-Falkenstein Castle, Medieval castle in Klus, Switzerland
Alt-Falkenstein is a medieval fortress in the Klus gorge near Balsthal, positioned above a mountain pass valley. The complex includes several buildings and walls set within a narrow passage between steep rock faces.
The fortress was built around 1100 and served as a strategic control point for important trade and travel through the Klus passage. It played a key role in the region's history and was inhabited and defended over many centuries.
The castle houses a local history museum displaying archaeological artifacts and weaponry from different periods. The collection also shows industrial development in Thal Nature Park and documents how people lived in this mountain area.
Guided tours are available from April through October, allowing visitors to explore the fortress and museum exhibits. Good footwear is recommended since the paths are steep and access involves climbing several sets of stairs.
The fortress is surrounded by dramatic rocky cliffs that encircle it on nearly three sides, creating a striking backdrop. This geographical position is exactly what made it so valuable as a defensive stronghold in medieval times.
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