Summary
Given Austria’s extensive and eventful history, it is unsurprising that the country is adorned with remarkable castles, fortifications, and palaces that narrate the narrative of its significant past.
Under the influence of the Habsburg and Habsburg-Lorraine dynasties, parts of the Holy Roman Empire and later the Austrian Empire, the tale of Austria’s imperial heritage is complex. The Thirty Years’ War and the German Peasants’ War had varying impacts on Austrian castles, with some suffering considerable damage, while others withstood the test of time, primarily due to their strategic placements within the Alpine regions.
From elegantly designed residential castles to imposing hilltop fortresses, we now explore 15 of the most notable castles in Austria:
1. Schloss Ort
Schloss Ort is beautifully situated on Traunsee Lake, encompassed by breathtaking scenery and the towering peaks of the Salzkammergut mountains. The castle’s foundations trace back to the late 11th century, with continuous enhancements made until the mid-13th century.
The castle, which occupies its own island, is linked to the mainland by a 123-meter long footbridge. Schloss Ort is among the oldest structures in the region, with ownership changing hands multiple times over the centuries.
The castle gained fame through the Austrian television series “Schlosshotel Orth.”
2. Riegersburg Castle
The medieval Riegersburg Castle is an impressive edifice situated 482 meters above sea level atop a dramatic, cliff-edged dormant volcano in Styria. The castle’s construction utilized basalt from the hill, a common practice for hilltop fortifications.
Although construction began prior to the mid-12th century, the exact date remains uncertain. The castle is first documented around 1138, known for its impregnable fortress status, a quality easily imagined given its commanding location.
Today, the castle presents a more picturesque facade rather than an intimidating presence, surrounded by tranquil vineyards, allowing visitors to explore both the castle and the encompassing museum.
3. Burg Kreuzenstein
Burg Kreuzenstein ranks among the most picturesque castles in Austria. Nestled in Lower Austria on a charming wooded hill, it rises 265 meters above sea level, and the current structure has been reconstructed atop the remains of a previous medieval castle.
In 1874, Johann Nepomuk Graf Wilczek, a polar explorer, philanthropist, and chamberlain for Emperor Franz Joseph I, initiated the rebuilding of the castle. What began as a simple renovation of the Chapel of Kreuzenstein as a family tomb quickly evolved into a full restoration of the entire structure.
The restoration process, carried out alongside prominent architects specializing in historic structures, took approximately three decades. The castle now harmoniously features elements of the original medieval architecture alongside components from various medieval structures throughout Europe that were acquired for the restoration. Thus, the edifice showcases a blend of original medieval sections and neo-architectural elements.
4. Burg Hochosterwitz
The formidable Burg Hochosterwitz, located in southern Austria, exemplifies medieval defensive architecture and stands as one of the nation’s premier tourist destinations.
Perched atop a winding road on a Dolomite rock formation, the castle is protected by an impressive network of 14 fortified gates. The architectural design has remained unchanged since the 16th century.
5. Hohensalzburg Fortress
Majestically sovereign over the scenic city of Salzburg, Hohensalzburg Fortress is not only a primary attraction of the city but also a historical treasure. With a history extending over 900 years, the medieval fortress, established in the 11th century, ranks among Europe’s largest well-preserved fortress complexes.
An unsuccessful siege occurred in the 16th century during the German Peasants’ War; however, in 1800, the fortress surrendered to French forces during the Napoleonic Wars.
Originally, the fortress served to protect the region and its archbishops from potential assaults.
6. Franzensburg
Franzensburg, situated in Lower Austria, is regarded as one of the most enchanting castles within the nation, distinguished by its unique architectural design. Constructed during the early half of the 19th century, Franzensburg was intended as a museum. The castle draws from medieval design elements and has been acclaimed for its adherence to historicism.
The delightful castle park, complete with an adjacent pond, mirrors the style of English landscaped gardens and spans across 250 acres.
7. Kufstein Fortress
Kufstein Fortress in the stunning Tyrol region presents both grandeur and an imposing facade, dominating the landscape at an elevation of 507 meters above sea level.
The precise construction date remains ambiguous; however, it was first mentioned in written records around 1205. From the 14th and 15th centuries, the fortress was a contested location between Tyrol and Bavaria.
8. Hohenwerfen Castle
If you consider yourself acquainted with numerous strikingly preserved hilltop fortresses, Hohenwerfen Castle will emerge and captivate with its remarkable allure. Situated in the idyllic Salzach Valley, just a 40-minute drive from Salzburg, this over 900-year-old fortress attracts visitors as one of the nation’s most frequented tourist sites.
The breathtaking landscape surrounding the castle is truly picturesque. As the Salzach River meanders through the valley, the castle majestically stands at 623 meters above sea level. Below lies the Austrian market town of Werfen, enveloped by thick forests and bordered by the Berchtesgaden Alps and Tennen Mountains, enhancing the scenic charm.
Hohenwerfen and Hohensalzburg share a common historical narrative as both fortifications were commissioned by the Archbishops of Salzburg during the 11th century, a period marked by political turmoil that underscored the necessity for defensive fortifications to safeguard the archdiocese.
9. Ambras Castle
Resembling the snowy crests of the Alps, Ambras Castle in Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, exemplifies Renaissance architecture and dates back to 1563. The castle occupies the site of an earlier fortress erected in the 10th century. In the initial three decades following its completion, it served as the residence for Archduke Ferdinand II. As a notable art collector, Archduke Ferdinand II fostered an influx of art pieces, which were displayed in the castle museum, thereby making Ambras Castle one of the oldest museums in Europe.
Among the castle’s highlights is The Spanish Hall, designed for balls and festive occasions. The hall’s walls feature 27 full-figure portraits of Tyrolean rulers, complemented by elaborately wood-carved coffered ceilings that leave a lasting impression.
The castle grounds feature an exquisite English landscape garden with manicured lawns and neatly-shaped shrubbery.
10. Burg Freundsberg
An exceptionally distinct Tirolean castle, Burg Freundsberg not only enhances the surrounding Alpine landscape with its beauty but also stands out due to its architectural design. The complex consists of a keep and an adjacent chapel, with the keep constructed in 1150 and the chapel following in 1177. The castle is situated on a hill at an elevation of 675 meters above sea level.
Historically, it served as the seat for the Knights of Freundsberg. From the early 19th century, the city of Schwaz took possession of the castle, which now houses the Schwaz museum.
11. Heinfels Castle
Heinfels Castle, located in the Puster Valley of Tyrol, first appeared in written records in the mid-13th century. Its hilltop position defines the castle’s arrangement, seemingly effortlessly perched atop uneven terrain. The castle features round and rectangular towers, a 20-meter high keep, an outer ward, and a curtain wall.
In 1526, the castle was besieged amid the German Peasants’ War. By 1593, it underwent restoration and enhancements, giving it its current appearance. Yet, in the early 17th century, significant portions of the castle were destroyed by fire.
12. Liechtenstein Castle
Distinct from Lichtenstein Castle in Germany, Liechtenstein Castle in Lower Austria derives its name from the House of Liechtenstein, the ruling family of the small nation. The family possessed the castle during the 12th and 13th centuries, and again from the 19th century onward.
The castle fell into ruins after being destroyed by the Ottomans in the mid-16th century, remaining in such state until its restoration in the 19th century. Renowned for its charming appearance, the castle has been featured in various films, including the 1993 adaptation of The Three Musketeers.
Currently privately owned by the Liechtenstein family, the castle may also be explored as it features a museum and hosts an annual theater festival.
13. Tratzberg Castle
Tratzberg Castle in Tyrol serves as a quintessential representation of Alpine palatial architecture. The castle, as seen today, was constructed in 1500, showcasing late Gothic and early Renaissance elements. The structure remains privately owned and is recognized as one of the best-preserved castles in Austria.
A notable feature of the castle is its beautifully adorned inner courtyard, which reflects the design trends of the early Renaissance. Tratzberg Castle boasts a plethora of original architectural elements.
14. Forchtenstein Castle
The history of Forchtenstein Castle originates from the late Middle Ages. Constructed by the Lords of Mattersdorf, the castle is situated approximately 500 meters above sea level, overlooking the municipality of Forchtenstein. The keep, standing at 50 meters high, represented the initial phase of construction.
In contrast to many other regional castles and fortresses, Forchtenstein Castle remained largely unscathed during the Ottoman Wars. Initially a fortified residence, it later transformed into a treasury for preserving valuables and precious possessions.
15. Burg Clam
Burg Clam in Upper Austria, dating back to 1149, initially served as a fortress equipped with two 30-meter high towers, which still stand today. Throughout the Thirty Years’ War, the castle endured several suppression attempts, yet resilient defenses preserved its integrity. However, by the mid-17th century, it had lost much of its former prestige due to sustained damages.
The castle underwent renovations in the 18th century, during which additional structures, such as a church and administrative wings, were constructed. Ownership has remained consistent for over half a century.
A portion of the castle is accessible to the public, allowing visitors to experience the arched three-story courtyard, armory, chapel, and parts of the living quarters.
