Burgruine Merkenstein

Probably built in the 11th century - first documented in 1141 (Ortwin von Merkenstein). It was destroyed between 1317 and 1324 in a mysterious way (fire probably?), and was rebuilt in 1324. Various caretakers administered the castle until it was destroyed by the Turks in 1683. The official seat of the Merkenstein lordship was moved to Gainfarn from that time.
Today there is a Turkish fountain next to the ruin on the site of the former Merkensteiner Tiergarten, and a cave at the foot of the castle rock in the east.