Dorfelden Castle (Ruin) (Niederdorfelden)

The first documented mention of Dorfelden Castle dates back to 1234, in the context of an inheritance division between Reinhard III and Heinrich von Dorfelden. The Dorfelden family, who later named themselves after Hanau, likely succeeded the Lords of Buchen, who were previously documented in this region. The castle changed hands multiple times and was pledged, including to the Falkenstein and Rieneck families. In 1333, Ulrich II of Hanau transferred the castle to Duke Rudolf of Saxony, who needed a fortified stronghold on the route to Frankfurt am Main. Dorfelden Castle lost its significance, its functions were taken over by the neighboring Junkerhof, and it gradually fell into disrepair. Towards the end of the 20th century, stabilization measures were taken to preserve the last remaining walls.