Once a proud symbol of power, fairytale king Ludwig II had big plans for this castle ruins. Today it is a popular excursion and viewing destination in the Allgäu.
The highest castle in Germany – or what is left of it – is perched on a steep cliff in the Allgäu. Parts of the ancient walls are still standing and give an idea of how the castle lords must have felt in the past. The view from the walls stretches far over the Alpine foothills and the Alpine peaks, including the mountain lakes and surrounding fortresses. The complex was originally less for military purposes and not as an ornamental castle.
From a tourist perspective, the fortress lies in the shadow of the neighboring Neuschwanstein Castle. Geographically, however, it has the place in the sun. The strategic location and design of Falkenstein Castle highlight the medieval use of architecture to assert dominance and control over regions. Its historical significance is enhanced by the stunning natural vistas that provide a glimpse into the past.
Only a few days ago, Falkenstein Castle made headlines. The heavy rains at the beginning of June uncovered archaeological treasures, as well as previously unknown parts of walls and stairs. The rain had devastated parts of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, and even the unusual location did not protect the castle ruins from the masses of water. The ancient walls are located at 1,277 meters; no castle in Germany is higher.
Falkenstein Castle in the Allgäu is the highest fortress in Germany
The remains of the complex lie on the Falkenstein ridge, giving an idea of the former splendor of the walls. It has lost none of its literal grandeur. Visible from afar, the complex towers over a vertical rock face, and from the ruins themselves the view extends to the Alpine foothills, the Allgäu Alps with their highest peaks, and all the way to Neuschwanstein Castle. Because of its unusual location, modern castle research interprets Falkenstein Castle less as a militarily significant fortress, but rather as a symbol of power and a threat to the Duchy of Bavaria.
At the end of the 13th century, Count Meinhard II of Tyrol laid claim to the Staufer inheritance in the Ostallgäu. He was faced with a powerful enemy who disputed his lands: the Dukes of Bavaria. As a symbol of power over his unwelcome neighbor, he had the small fortress built, conspicuous and directly on the imperial border. Because the neighboring bishopric of Augsburg was also involved, the region is characterized by an unusually high density of castles. It is not for nothing that the area around Füssen, Bavaria’s highest town, is called the King’s Corner. The territories of the three feudal lords clashed here and just a few years after completion, Count Meinhard II transferred the fortress to the Augsburg bishops.
Falkenstein Castle in Allgäu: the King’s last dream
The castle was considered rather unsuitable for defensive purposes, and due to its high altitude it was often uninhabitable, especially in winter. In 1582 the official residence was therefore moved to the valley. During the Thirty Years’ War, Falkenstein Castle finally came to an end as a seat of power. In order not to have to leave it intact to the advancing Swedes, the Tyroleans decided to destroy it. Like the neighboring castles of Eisenberg and Hohenfreyberg, the fortress was set on fire – a mistake, as it later turned out. The Swedes changed their route, which made the destruction pointless.
Today, the castle stands in the shadow of the nearby Neuschwanstein Castle, but is an outstanding tourist destination, particularly because of the wonderful view. Similar to the fairytale castle, which is one of the most important attractions in the Allgäu and in all of Germany, King Ludwig II had extravagant plans for the Falkenstein castle ruins. A pompous residence was to be built on the mountain cone, but this time in the Gothic style. Financial problems and ultimately Ludwig II’s death in 1886 prevented the project from being implemented. Falkenstein Castle remained the neurotic king’s last dream.
