Kőszeg Castle
Vas
Kőszeg Castle, also known as Jurisics Castle after its renowned captain Nikola Jurišić, is a medieval fortress located in the historic old town of Kőszeg, Vas County, Hungary. Its origins date back to at least 802 AD, mentioned as 'castellum Guntionis' in Einhard's chronicle. The castle played a pivotal role throughout Hungarian history, especially during the 1532 Ottoman siege when a small defending force led by Jurišić heroically resisted a vastly superior Ottoman army. Over centuries, the castle changed hands multiple times, including ownership by the Kőszegi family, the Garai family, the Habsburgs, and the Esterházy dukes. The fortress suffered damage in a fire in 1777, leading to the dismantling of many defensive structures. Restorations in the 20th and 21st centuries have transformed the castle into a cultural hub featuring interactive exhibitions that showcase its history from construction through the Esterházy era and highlight the famous 1532 siege. It hosts the Jurisics Castle Cultural Center and the Kőszeg Castle Theatre, offering visitors a rich blend of history, art, and live performances.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the official website for opening hours as they may vary seasonally. The castle is best visited during the warmer months when cultural events and the castle theatre are active. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended for special exhibitions and festivals. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The castle is accessible by public transport and offers guided tours that enrich the visitor experience.
Interesting facts
- •The castle was first mentioned in 802 AD as 'castellum Guntionis' in Einhard's chronicle.
- •In 1532, a small garrison of about 700-800 defenders repelled an Ottoman army of over 100,000 during a 25-day siege.
- •Since 1777, the town's church clocks have been set to 11 o'clock to commemorate the time the Ottoman troops left the city limits after the siege.
- •The castle was owned by the Esterházy family from 1695 until 1931.
- •The castle's restoration from 2011 to 2013 included modern interactive exhibits and climate-controlled display cases.
History
Kőszeg Castle's first recorded mention is from 802 AD.
The castle was expanded after the Mongol invasion, becoming a significant feudal center by the 13th century under the Héder clan.
It was captured and partially demolished in the late 13th century but regained prominence under King Charles Robert of Anjou in the 14th century.
The castle endured numerous sieges, most famously the 1532 defense against the Ottoman Empire led by Nikola Jurišić.
Ownership passed through several noble families, including the Garai and Esterházy, until the 20th century.
A major fire in 1777 destroyed much of its defenses, and restoration efforts in the 20th and 21st centuries have preserved its historical significance.
Place Guide
The Inner Castle and Exhibition Halls
The core of Kőszeg Castle, housing interactive exhibitions detailing the castle's history from its construction through the Esterházy era, with a special focus on the 1532 Ottoman siege.
Esterházy Altar1771
Originally built in 1771 and restored between 2016-2018, this altar features a central Madonna figure and was commissioned by Esterházy Miklós József. It was dismantled during archaeological excavations and later reinstalled in the castle.
Castle Theatre (Várszínház)1982
Established in 1982 on the 450th anniversary of the 1532 siege, the castle theatre hosts a summer arts festival and year-round performances, enriching the cultural life of Kőszeg.
Sultan's Hill (Szultán-domb)
A nearby hill from which Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent observed the 1532 siege of Kőszeg. It remains a historic viewpoint linked to the castle's most famous battle.
Contact
Phone: (06 94) 360 113
