Weißenstein Castle

The first documented mention of Weißenstein Castle dates back to March 21, 1279, when a "Wolff de Wisstenstein" appeared as a witness. The Wolff family is considered the probable builder of an initial, smaller complex, referred to as a "Blochwerk" – a castle with a tower-like upper floor constructed of timber-frame or log-cabin style. Around 1290, Ludwig, Dietrich, and Nicklas Wolff were named as owners. In 1309, Albert Notthafft VI acquired a part of the castle. His son Albrecht Notthafft XI was a co-owner in 1333 and received permission in 1339 to rebuild and improve the fortress after it had been damaged in military conflicts. In 1341, he also acquired the last part of the castle, marking the beginning of an expansion. The Notthafft von Weißenstein line owned the castle until their extinction in 1718, although the lordship was temporarily sold to the von Waldenfels family from 1552 to 1566 and later repurchased. After 1560, the castle was likely abandoned and fell into disrepair.