Castle Falkenstein (Lower Austria)

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The Castle Falkenstein Castle Ruin (de. Schloss Falkenstein, lit. Castle Falcon Stone) is located in the Weinviertel region of Lower Austria, about 55 km north of Vienna near the border to Czech Republik.

The history of the castle from the 11th century is as old as the settlement of the region. It was founded around 1050 by Emperor Henry III. 1106 Leopold III, Margrave of Austria purchased the castle, from then on it was owned by the rulers of Austria. 1572 Maximilian II sold Falkenstein to the Baron (later Count) of Trautson.

In 1645, in the last period of the Thirty Years' War Falkenstein was conquered by Swedish forces, but not destroyed. Its decay began at the end of the 17th century, when the castle was dismantled by the owners themselves for re-use of the material.

During the summer-season the inner ward becomes an impressive place for medival feasts and theatre plays.