Falkenstein Castle (Niederfalkenstein)

Austria, Austria

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Falkenstein Castle, also known as Niederfalkenstein (Burg Niederfalkenstein), is a medieval castle near the town of Obervellach in Carinthia, Austria, sitting on a rocky promontory about 843 metres above sea level and overlooking the Möll valley.

Built in the 12th century by the Lords of Falkenstein, it forms part of a larger castle complex that includes the now‑ruined Oberfalkenstein fortress further up the ridge, with Niederfalkenstein serving as the lower, better‑preserved barbican guarding the same approach.

The castle has been rebuilt and restored several times, most notably from 1905 onward, and after a 1969 fire its main building was restored again, so today visitors see a largely intact, picturesque medieval‑style structure that is still privately owned but open to the public in summer months.