Falkenstein Castle

Falkenstein Castle is a ruin standing on a steep rocky crag at 617 meters elevation, marking the entrance to the Höllental valley near Freiburg. The remains consist mainly of wall fragments and foundations scattered across the rocky terrain.

The fortress was built around 1200 by the Zähringer dynasty and controlled trade routes linking the Breisgau region with Lake Constance through the Black Forest. Its location made it a key post for monitoring and protecting commerce through the difficult mountain terrain.

The valley was originally named Falkensteiner Tal after this fortress and its lords, but locals later called it Höllental as time passed. This name shift reflects how the area's identity and local memory changed through the centuries.

Current access to the site is restricted due to structural instability, with only wall fragments and foundations remaining visible from the outside. Visitors should be aware this is a hazardous location and stay clear of any safety barriers or restricted zones.

The medieval complex spread across four distinct levels, from a lower ward through middle sections to an upper ward, spanning roughly 55 meters in length. This layered arrangement shows how the fortress was thoughtfully designed to fit the challenging rocky terrain.