Schloß Falkenstein, Medieval castle in Waldhof-Falkenstein, Germany.

Schloss Falkenstein is the ruin of a high-medieval spur castle on a rocky spur about 350 m above sea level above the Our valley, opposite Bivels and some 800 m south of Waldhof-Falkenstein. Surviving elements include the castle gate, parts of the shield wall, a wall of the palas, parts of the zwinger, a defensive tower, vaulted passages, the Romanesque chapel and wall remains of the stables and servants' quarters. A residential house stands within the ruins, which are privately owned and inhabited.

The castle was probably built in the first half of the 12th century by the lords of Falkenstein and expanded in the 16th century by the counts of Manderscheid. In 1225 it passed to the counts of Luxembourg; in 1679 it was destroyed and later rebuilt. After 1815 it belonged to Prussia, and in 1895 it was sold and the dwelling house enlarged.

The castle served as a symbol of power and protection for people living in the surrounding region. Visitors today can observe how the construction style reflected the strength of the medieval ruler.

Visiting is best done on foot via a forest trail accessible from Waldhof-Falkenstein. It is advisable to wear sturdy footwear and check opening times in advance, as access may be limited during certain periods.

The castle gate, shield wall, palace wall, zwinger, defensive tower, vaulted passages, chapel and stable remains still stand. The chapel and main castle date from the 12th to 14th centuries, and the site has stayed privately owned and inhabited since 1895, when the Schippers family's daughters Charlotte Sartor and Edda Norkauer took it on in 1987.