Falkenstein Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Pfronten, Germany.
Falkenstein Castle consists of stone ruins perched at 1277 meters elevation in the Allgäu Alps, making it Germany's highest fortress. The remains reveal masonry from different construction periods, from medieval foundations to later modifications.
Count Meinhard II of Tyrol built the castle between 1270 and 1280 to secure his territory against the Duchy of Bavaria. In 1646, it was deliberately destroyed by Tyrolean authorities to prevent Swedish Protestant forces from occupying it.
The name Falkenstein refers to the falcons that once nested at this elevation and shaped the site's identity. Visitors can still observe how the castle's location reflects its connection to the Alpine landscape.
Reaching the ruins requires a demanding mountain hike that calls for good fitness and sturdy footwear. The trail crosses Alpine meadows and becomes challenging, particularly during winter months.
King Ludwig II acquired the ruins in 1883 and commissioned architect Christian Jank to design a new castle in Gothic style. The project remained unrealized, leaving a layer of unfulfilled ambitions hidden within the mountainside.
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