Tratzberg Castle
Tirol
Tratzberg Castle, perched on a steep ridge above Jenbach in Tyrol, Austria, is a remarkable example of alpine Renaissance architecture from the late Gothic to early Renaissance period. Originally mentioned in 1296, the castle was rebuilt around 1500 by the Tänzl brothers after a devastating fire. It features a three-storey four-wing complex with a courtyard, stair tower, and exquisite details such as portals, arcades, and Hagauer marble elements. The castle's interiors retain many original furnishings, including Gothic cupboards, Renaissance furniture, and artworks like Hans Leonhard Schäufelein's 1509 painting "Tournament at Innsbruck." The castle also houses the Habsburgersaal, an imperial hall decorated with frescoes of the Habsburg family, reflecting its historical ties to Emperor Maximilian I and other notable figures. Throughout its history, Tratzberg changed hands among noble families including the Fugger dynasty, who contributed to its rich heritage. Today, it remains inhabited by Count Ulrich Goëss-Enzenberg and his wife, who have restored and opened it to the public. Visitors can explore the castle through guided tours, enjoying its authentic medieval and Renaissance atmosphere, complemented by amenities such as a restaurant, playground, and a transfer train.
Plan your trip to Austria with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit Tratzberg Castle from late March to early November to enjoy guided tours of the historic rooms and courtyard. Book tickets online in advance to avoid waiting times. The castle offers special audio-guided tours, including a children's fairy tale tour. Summer months provide pleasant weather and additional events like the summer castle concert. Parking and visitor facilities are available on site.
Interesting facts
- •Tratzberg Castle retains many original furnishings from the late Gothic and Renaissance periods, including a unique South Tyrolean cupboard from around 1460.
- •The Habsburgersaal features frescoes depicting Emperor Maximilian I with his two wives, Mary of Burgundy and Bianca Maria Sforza, as well as other Habsburg rulers.
- •The castle was rebuilt by the Tänzl brothers, who were commoners turned noblemen due to their mining wealth and were ennobled in 1502.
- •Hans Leonhard Schäufelein's 1509 painting "Tournament at Innsbruck" is displayed within the castle.
- •The castle suffered looting by Bavarian soldiers during the Napoleonic Wars in 1809, damaging its armory and furniture.
History
The original castle, known as Trazperch, was first mentioned in 1296 but destroyed by fire in 1490/91.
Emperor Maximilian I granted the ruin to the Tänzl brothers in 1499, who rebuilt it into a Renaissance palace by 1508.
Ownership passed through several noble families, including the Augsburg knight Georg von Ilsung and the wealthy Fugger family, who were influential in local mining.
The castle suffered looting and damage during the Napoleonic Wars in 1809.
In 1847, the Enzenberg family acquired it and undertook restorations, making it their primary residence.
The current owners, Count Ulrich and Katrin Goëss-Enzenberg, have further restored the castle and opened it to the public as a cultural heritage site.
Place Guide
Habsburgersaal (Imperial Hall)16th century
A grand hall decorated with frescoes of the Habsburg family, including Emperor Maximilian I and his wives, depicting a genealogical homage to the dynasty.
Fugger Chamber and ParlourLate 16th century
Rooms featuring original furniture and decoration from the Fugger family era, showcasing the wealth of this influential merchant family involved in mining.
ChapelLate Gothic period (vault), 1750 (altar)
A late Gothic vaulted chapel with sculptures from the period; the high altar dates to 1750 and features Saint Catherine of Alexandria, the castle's patron saint.
Armory and Weapons Collection15th-16th century
A collection of 15th and 16th-century arms from Count Franz Enzenberg III's collection, displayed within the castle.
Original Furnishings15th-16th century
Includes a rare South Tyrolean cupboard from c.1460, gothic washstand, post bed, oblique tables with winding columns, and a late Gothic Lusterweibchen chandelier in mermaid form.
Contact
Phone: 05242 63566
