Burg Hochosterwitz
Kärnten
Burg Hochosterwitz is a prominent hill castle located on a 175-meter high dolomite rock near St. Veit an der Glan in Carinthia, Austria. It is renowned for its remarkable defensive architecture featuring a winding path with 14 fortified gates leading to the main castle. The fortress combines medieval and Renaissance elements, reflecting its long history of military significance, particularly against Turkish invasions in the 16th century. The castle houses a notable armory, Renaissance-era art collections, and a museum that showcases its historical importance. Owned continuously by the KhevenhĂĽller family since the 16th century, the castle remains a cultural landmark offering visitors insight into Carinthian heritage, medieval crafts, and architecture. Visitors can ascend via the historic gates or use the FĂĽrst-Max-Bahn funicular. The castle also hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and features a restaurant serving traditional Carinthian cuisine. Its unique position atop an isolated rock makes it a visually stunning and historically rich destination.
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Tip: Visitors should allocate at least 1.5 hours to fully explore Burg Hochosterwitz. The best time to visit is during the open season starting April 1st. Tickets can be conveniently purchased online in advance to avoid queues. Note that the castle gates close punctually, and last entry is allowed 1.5 hours before closing. Drone flights over the castle are prohibited. Consider using the FĂĽrst-Max-Bahn funicular for an easier ascent, especially for those with limited mobility.
Interesting facts
- •The castle features 14 fortified gates along its access path, designed to slow and defend against attackers.
- •Burg Hochosterwitz was expanded during the 16th century as part of a defensive network against Ottoman invasions.
- •The castle lacked its own water supply until 1961 when a source was discovered by the estate manager Raimund Ruhdorfer.
- •The fortress combines medieval defensive structures with Renaissance architectural elements, notably in its gates made from red sandstone and green chlorite schist accented with white limestone or marble.
- •The castle is continuously owned by the Khevenhüller family since the 16th century.
History
The site of Burg Hochosterwitz has been settled since the early Bronze Age, with archaeological finds from Hallstatt, La Tène, and Roman periods.
First documented in 860 AD as 'Astarwizza,' the castle was originally owned by the Archbishopric of Salzburg until the 12th century.
It later became a fief of the Schenken von Osterwitz family until 1478, when it reverted to Emperor Frederick III.
In 1509, Emperor Maximilian granted it to Bishop Matthäus Lang von Wellenburg, who expanded the fortress.
In 1541, Georg von KhevenhĂĽller acquired the castle, and between 1570 and 1583, he transformed it into its present form as a principal Carinthian stronghold, exemplifying Renaissance defensive architecture.
Since then, it has remained in the KhevenhĂĽller family.
Place Guide
The 14 Fortified Gates1570-1583
A unique defensive feature, these gates wind up the rocky terrain, each designed to delay and repel attackers, showcasing Renaissance military architecture.
Armory and Weapon Collection
The castle's armory displays an extensive collection of medieval and Renaissance weapons, illustrating the fortress's military history.
Renaissance Art and Picture Gallery16th century
A collection of Renaissance-era paintings and artifacts reflecting the castle's cultural significance during the 16th century.
Contact
Phone: 04213 2020
