Castle history

In the 12th century, the lords of Konradsburg Castle built a new ancestral seat above the Selke, taking its name and calling themselves the Counts of Falkenstein. Its fortified walls and towering keep form an impressive panorama. Falkenstein is the best-preserved castle in the Harz region. The Counts of Falkenstein’s influence in the region grew step by step, and in the 13th century, they became the governors of Quedlinburg Abbey. Their elevated status was reflected in the expansion of the castle. In 1322, Count Burchard V conferred the castle and its rule upon the Diocese of Halberstadt. His dynasty came to an end upon his death in 1334.

In 1437, the bishop of Halberstadt passed Falkenstein Castle to the lords of Asseburg. The castle’s modern appearance is thanks to their construction work. At the start of the 19th century, Busso II opened the castle doors to hikers from the Romanticism movement, who saw Falkenstein as an ideal knightly castle. In 1840, Ludwig I became Count of Asseburg-Falkenstein.