Schloss Herberstein
Steiermark
Schloss Herberstein is a fortified castle located near the Herberstein Zoo in the municipality of Stubenberg, Styria, Austria. It stands prominently on an east-west oriented rocky spur overlooking the Feistritzklamm gorge, making it strategically well-positioned and difficult to access from the north due to steep cliffs. The castle's oldest parts date back to the early 12th century, with significant expansions and renovations occurring over the centuries. In 1290, the Herberstein family acquired the two-story palas with the bergfried (keep), which was originally known as Herwigstein after Herwig von Krottendorf. The castle was expanded around 1400 with a large outer bailey that included the Gothic St. Catherine's Chapel, built circa 1370. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle underwent several enlargements and was transformed into a Renaissance-style residential building under Georg the Broad to accommodate his numerous descendants. The 17th century saw the addition of a magnificent knights' hall with a stucco ceiling designed by Italian stucco artist Alessandro Serenio. Further enhancements included the construction of the Florentine courtyard by architect Antonio Solari and the completion of the Georg Chapel, gardener's house, and Meierhof by the end of the century. Historically, the Herberstein family controlled about one-fifth of Styria, with around 1,000 tenant farms owing dues to the castle. Today, Schloss Herberstein remains in the possession of the family and serves as both a residence and administrative seat. Visitors can explore parts of the castle through guided tours. The surrounding Feistritzklamm trail and the splendid gardens dating back to the 16th century add to the site's appeal. The Tennengebäude (barn building), first mentioned in 1593 and extensively renovated in 2004, housed the Gironcoli Museum until 2022 and now includes an indoor playground and the House of Biodiversity, opened as part of the Styrian Exhibition in 2023. A preserved defensive tower stands north of the castle on a nearby hill, emphasizing its historic fortifications.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the castle during spring to early autumn when the gardens and surrounding nature are at their most vibrant. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to ensure access to the castle's interior. The site offers various discounts for groups, seniors, and families. The nearby Herberstein Zoo and the Feistritzklamm hiking trail complement the visit, so plan for a full day to enjoy all attractions.
Interesting facts
- •The castle is strategically located on a rocky spur with steep northern cliffs, making it nearly invisible and difficult to access from that direction.
- •The stucco ceiling of the 17th-century knights' hall was designed by Italian stucco artist Alessandro Serenio.
- •The castle estate once included about one-fifth of Styria, with approximately 1,000 tenant farms paying dues to the Herberstein family.
- •The Tennengebäude, originally mentioned in 1593, was renovated and expanded to house cultural exhibits and now includes an indoor playground and House of Biodiversity.
- •A preserved defensive tower north of the castle stands as a testament to its fortified past.
History
Schloss Herberstein's origins trace back to the early 12th century with the oldest surviving structures.
In 1290, the Herberstein family purchased the initial two-story palas and bergfried.
Around 1400, the castle expanded with a fortified outer bailey including the Gothic St.
Catherine's Chapel.
The 15th and 16th centuries brought Renaissance modifications to accommodate the growing family.
The 17th century added notable Baroque features such as the knights' hall and Florentine courtyard.
Over time, the castle became the center of a large estate controlling a significant portion of Styria.
It remains owned by the Herberstein family and has evolved to serve both as a residence and cultural site.
Place Guide
Knights' Hall17th century
A grand hall built in the 17th century featuring an elaborate stucco ceiling designed by Italian stucco artist Alessandro Serenio, showcasing Baroque artistry and noble grandeur.
Florentine CourtyardMid-17th century
Constructed in the mid-17th century by architect Antonio Solari, this courtyard reflects Italian Renaissance influences and serves as a central open space within the castle complex.
St. Catherine's Chapelcirca 1370
A Gothic chapel built around 1370, originally outside the castle but later incorporated into the outer bailey during expansions around 1400. It represents the medieval religious heritage of the site.
Tennengebäude (Barn Building)1593 (renovated 2004)
First mentioned in 1593 and extensively renovated in 2004, this building housed the Gironcoli Museum until 2022 and now contains an indoor playground and the House of Biodiversity, opened during the 2023 Styrian Exhibition.
Contact
Phone: 03176 88250
