Treffelstein Castle (Ruin)

The early history of the castle is not fully documented. A Heinrich von Treuenstein is mentioned in 1290, but his connection to Treffelstein Castle remains unclear. Ruger de Dreuenstein, likely his son, is considered the first confirmed owner in 1315. These lords possibly served the Schwarzenburgers or the Bavarian dukes. From 1336, the castle was under the rule of the Leuchtenbergers, with Heinrich, Jacob, and Hilprant Treffelsteiner named as vassals. Around 1400, the castle passed into the possession of local noble families such as the Paulsdorfers, Nothafft zu Runding, and Satzenhofers. In 1509, Heinrich Guttensteiner zu Schwarzenburg sold Treffelstein to the Palatinate, and in 1530, it was pledged to Hans Fuchs zu Schneeberg. Swedish troops destroyed the castle in 1634, and after a fire in 1695, it was finally abandoned.