Falkenstein Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in central Germany, will remain closed until March 2026 following the unexpected collapse of a wall earlier this year. Originally scheduled to reopen in July 2025 after planned renovations, the delay was announced by the Saxony-Anhalt Cultural Foundation, which oversees the site.
The incident occurred in January 2025, shortly after the castle had been closed to the public to begin clearing its roof storage areas. Without warning, a section of the outer bailey wall—located just behind the key entrance known as the “Crooked Gate”—suddenly collapsed. Fortunately, the collapse happened in the early morning hours and no one was injured. However, due to the wall’s location along the main visitor route, safety concerns have forced the foundation to revise the project timeline.
The wall when it collapsed in January – photo courtesy Saxony-Anhalt Cultural Foundation
Experts from the foundation and external consultants conducted an immediate on-site assessment. Initial safety measures included clearing debris, reinforcing the masonry with wooden supports, and installing protective nets. Further inspections revealed damage to adjacent sections of the wall as well as structural issues in the timber framing of the Crooked Gate itself.
To accommodate the emergency work, the foundation has reallocated funds in its budget to begin the necessary wall restoration immediately. Officials are now aiming to reopen Falkenstein Castle by the start of the 2026 season. In the meantime, the extended closure will allow other planned investigations—originally scheduled for later years—to be brought forward, reducing future disruptions. These include major structural projects supported by the federal-state Special Investment Program (SIP) focusing on the castle’s north and west wings.
A Castle with Deep Medieval Roots
The wall in June – photo courtesy Saxony-Anhalt Cultural Foundation
Located in the Harz Mountains of central Germany, Falkenstein Castle stands on a high ridge overlooking the Selke River. It was built in the 12th century by the Lords of Konradsburg, who adopted the name “Falkenstein” for their new fortified residence. With its Romanesque tower and formidable curtain walls, the castle grew into a symbol of power in the region.
During the 13th century, the Counts of Falkenstein expanded their holdings and influence, acquiring rights over nearby Quedlinburg Abbey. However, their male line died out in 1334, and Falkenstein passed to the Bishopric of Halberstadt. Later, in 1437, it came into the hands of the Lords of Asseburg, who significantly altered the structure and gave it much of its current appearance.
The wall in July – photo courtesy Saxony-Anhalt Cultural Foundation
Falkenstein’s romantic silhouette, nestled in the forested Harz landscape, began attracting visitors in the 19th century. Under Count Busso II and later Count Ludwig I of Asseburg-Falkenstein, the castle became a popular destination for travelers inspired by medieval chivalry and legend.
The current renovation efforts aim to preserve that legacy while ensuring the safety of modern visitors. Once reopened, Falkenstein Castle will resume its exhibitions, cultural events, and restaurant service—welcoming guests once again to explore its medieval grandeur.
Falkenstein Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in central Germany, will remain closed until March 2026 following the unexpected collapse of a wall earlier this year. Originally scheduled to reopen in July 2025 after planned renovations, the delay was announced by the Saxony-Anhalt Cultural Foundation, which oversees the site.
The incident occurred in January 2025, shortly after the castle had been closed to the public to begin clearing its roof storage areas. Without warning, a section of the outer bailey wall—located just behind the key entrance known as the “Crooked Gate”—suddenly collapsed. Fortunately, the collapse happened in the early morning hours and no one was injured. However, due to the wall’s location along the main visitor route, safety concerns have forced the foundation to revise the project timeline.
Experts from the foundation and external consultants conducted an immediate on-site assessment. Initial safety measures included clearing debris, reinforcing the masonry with wooden supports, and installing protective nets. Further inspections revealed damage to adjacent sections of the wall as well as structural issues in the timber framing of the Crooked Gate itself.
To accommodate the emergency work, the foundation has reallocated funds in its budget to begin the necessary wall restoration immediately. Officials are now aiming to reopen Falkenstein Castle by the start of the 2026 season. In the meantime, the extended closure will allow other planned investigations—originally scheduled for later years—to be brought forward, reducing future disruptions. These include major structural projects supported by the federal-state Special Investment Program (SIP) focusing on the castle’s north and west wings.
A Castle with Deep Medieval Roots
Located in the Harz Mountains of central Germany, Falkenstein Castle stands on a high ridge overlooking the Selke River. It was built in the 12th century by the Lords of Konradsburg, who adopted the name “Falkenstein” for their new fortified residence. With its Romanesque tower and formidable curtain walls, the castle grew into a symbol of power in the region.
During the 13th century, the Counts of Falkenstein expanded their holdings and influence, acquiring rights over nearby Quedlinburg Abbey. However, their male line died out in 1334, and Falkenstein passed to the Bishopric of Halberstadt. Later, in 1437, it came into the hands of the Lords of Asseburg, who significantly altered the structure and gave it much of its current appearance.
Falkenstein’s romantic silhouette, nestled in the forested Harz landscape, began attracting visitors in the 19th century. Under Count Busso II and later Count Ludwig I of Asseburg-Falkenstein, the castle became a popular destination for travelers inspired by medieval chivalry and legend.
The current renovation efforts aim to preserve that legacy while ensuring the safety of modern visitors. Once reopened, Falkenstein Castle will resume its exhibitions, cultural events, and restaurant service—welcoming guests once again to explore its medieval grandeur.
For more details, please visit the Falkenstein Castle website.
Top Image: Photo by Wolkenkratzer / Wikimedia Commons
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