Falkenstein/Harz
Immerse yourself in the Middle Ages
High above the Selketal, 320 meters above sea level, the imposing castle to which our town owes its name sits majestically: Falkenstein Castle. Its eventful history dates back to the 12th century. Since then, Falkenstein Castle has shaped the region and we cherish this important heritage. The Middle Ages are alive within the walls of Falkenstein Castle. Immerse yourself in this fascinating time!
Even the path to the castle is magical: you hike through dense deciduous forests, past gnarled roots. It looms out of nowhere between the treetops: the mighty Falkenstein Castle. Falkenstein Castle. The lords of the former Konradsburg had good reason to move their ancestral seat from today’s Ermsleben to the high rocky ridge in the 12th century. A museum within the castle walls reveals the fascinating background.
The sight of the impressive walls will give you goosebumps. At Falkenstein Castle, every stone breathes medieval history – and this is lovingly celebrated. So don’t be surprised if damsels, noble knights, jugglers and minstrels cross your path. Falkenstein Castle regularly hosts colorful castle festivals.
Falkenstein Castle and Konradsburg Castle are part of the Romanesque Road and are therefore popular excursion destinations in the Harz Mountains.
Ambitious hikers also like to head for the castles in the town of Falkenstein/Harz: they are stamping points for the “Harzer Wandernadel” hiking badge. Earn our special regional badge, the Harz Hiking Badge “Selketal-Stieg”. For 17 stamps, you will be rewarded with a pin in the shape of a kingfisher and unforgettable memories of wonderful moments in nature.
The kingfisher symbolizes the Selketal region – and not without reason. It needs clean waters and healthy nature to live. It finds these ideal conditions in the almost 120-hectare Friedrichshohenberg nature reserve.
What a picture-book scenery: extensive beech forests, wild flowers and bodies of water as well as orchards and farmland characterize the beautiful landscape around Falkenstein/Harz. With a bit of luck, you may spot rare salamanders, frogs or dragonflies. Always keep a respectful distance so that the sensitive Selketal ecosystem remains a paradise for protected species and us humans.
The town of Falkenstein/Harz consists of the villages of Endorf, Ermsleben, Meisdorf, Neuplatendorf, Pansfelde, Reinstedt and Wieserode. Each town has its own highlights that are well worth a visit.
Turmwindmühle
Ballenstedt
The town of Ballenstedt on the northern edge of the Harz Mountains is considered the cradle of Anhalt. The Ascanians have left impressive traces in this charming little town, which are waiting to be discovered by you.
Harzgerode
The town of Harzgerode comprises 13 districts – each with its own exciting history. The town center itself is a real architectural treasure trove that you should not miss,
