Burg Forchtenstein
Burgenland
Forchtenstein Castle, located in northern Burgenland, Austria, is a late medieval fortress perched 511 meters above sea level overlooking the Wulka valley. Originally built in the early 15th century by the Lords of Mattersburg, later known as the Lords of Forchtenstein, the castle features a prominent 50-meter-high keep and the infamous Black Tower, which once served as a prison. After passing to the Habsburgs around 1450, it was granted to Nikolaus Esterházy in 1622, who transformed the deteriorating fortress into a fortified residence with Italian architectural influence. His son Paul expanded and ornamented the castle further in the Baroque style. Forchtenstein became a repository for weapons, archives, and an extraordinary collection of treasures and curiosities, including the last original baroque Kunst- und Wunderkammer (art and wonder chamber) in Europe. The treasure vault remained intact even through World War II, emphasizing the castle's historical significance. Today, the castle is still owned by the Esterházy family and offers visitors guided tours showcasing its art collections, military exhibits, and the remarkable Schatzkammer. Its combination of medieval fortification and baroque artistic heritage makes it a unique cultural landmark in Austria.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to join guided tours to fully appreciate the castle's extensive art and historical collections. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the castle and its grounds are fully accessible. Tickets can be purchased in advance via the official website to avoid queues. Discounts are often available for groups, seniors, and students. Photography inside certain exhibition rooms may be restricted, so check guidelines upon arrival.
Interesting facts
- •The Black Tower contains a 12-meter deep pit that was used as a death prison cell.
- •The castle houses Europe's last original baroque Kunst- und Wunderkammer (art and wonder chamber) at its original location.
- •The treasure vault was protected by a secret passage requiring two different keys held by separate individuals.
- •During the Hungarian Soviet Republic in 1919, about 280 objects from the Esterházy treasure were confiscated and taken to Budapest, where they remain on loan.
- •The castle's main portals and fountains were made from Kaiserstein stone, transported by oxen-drawn wagons.
History
The initial construction of Forchtenstein Castle began in the early 15th century by the Lords of Mattersburg.
Around 1450, the original noble line died out, and the castle came under Habsburg administration for about 170 years.
In 1622, Nikolaus Esterházy received the castle from Emperor Ferdinand II and initiated extensive fortification and refurbishment, employing Italian builders.
His son Paul further expanded the castle in the late 17th century, giving it its Baroque character.
The castle later served as a military arsenal and treasure repository for the Esterházy family.
Despite political changes and wars, including World War II, the castle's treasure vault and original collections remained preserved.
Since 2005, the Schatzkammer has been regularly open to the public.
Place Guide
The Black Tower15th century
A prominent 50-meter high tower originally lined with black rock, containing a 12-meter deep pit used as a prison cell for condemned prisoners, including the infamous case of Rezallia, who was sentenced to death there.
Schatzkammer (Treasure and Wonder Chamber)17th century
Europe's last original baroque art and wonder chamber, featuring a vast collection of precious objects such as clocks, ivory carvings, and stone cups, all displayed in original glass-paned cabinets dating back to the 17th century.
Main Courtyard with Frescoes17th-18th century
The castle's courtyard is adorned with frescoes and features a fountain made from hard Kaiserstein stone, showcasing the artistic craftsmanship of the Baroque period.
Military Arsenal (Zeughaus)
One of the largest private collections of military equipment in Europe, the arsenal contains weapons, machines, and trophies accumulated over centuries by the Esterházy family.
Contact
Phone: 02626 81212
