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Weitra Castle: Historical Splendor in the Waldviertel

Weitra Castle: Historical Splendor in the Waldviertel

Weitra Castle, a magnificent Renaissance castle in the upper Waldviertel, offers you the opportunity to delve deeply into the history and culture of this region. This castle, which is located on a granite plateau above the oldest brewing town in Austria is not only an architectural highlight, but also an important historical site.

Short info:

  • What is Weitra Castle? A historic Renaissance castle, known for its impressive architecture and history.
  • Where is it? It is located in the city of Weitra in the Waldviertel. Address: Schloss Weitra 71, 3970 Weitra.
  • How do I get there? By car via the B41 or B119, Weitra is well signposted.
  • Where can I park? There are parking options near the castle, including public parking lots and parking garages.
  • How much time should I plan for? For a detailed visit to the castle and gardens you should plan about 2 hours.
  • Is it interesting for children? Conditionally, the castle offers child-friendly tours and interactive exhibitions.
  • Is there an entrance fee? Yes. Adults about 11€. Here you can find all prices. With the NÖ-Card One-time admission is free.
  • opening hours? May 1st to October 31st, 10am to 5pm, closed on Tuesdays
  • What is there to see there? Historic rooms, changing exhibitions, a beautiful garden and a viewing terrace.
  • Who used to live here? The castle was the residence of the Counts of Fürstenberg and has a long aristocratic history.

Weitra Castle: Historical Splendor in the Waldviertel

Weitra Castle, a magnificent Renaissance castle in the upper Waldviertel, offers you the opportunity to delve deeply into the history and culture of this region. This castle, which is located on a granite plateau above the oldest brewing town in Austria is not only an architectural highlight, but also an important historical site.

observation tower

A special highlight of the castle is the observation tower. After climbing up, you will be treated to an impressive view of the medieval city walls of Weitra and the surrounding landscape of the Waldviertel. On clear days you can even see far beyond the borders. The tower offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the historical surroundings from a new perspective and to take great photos.

Aerial view of a picturesque town in the Waldviertel region with many buildings with terracotta roofs, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The town includes the distinctive church with a tall steeple and a central square with parked cars and shops; Weitra Castle adds to its historic splendor.

castle museum

The Weitra Castle Museum takes you on a journey through more than 800 years of history of the town and castle. From the beginnings under the Kuenringers to the current owners, the Fürstenberg family, the museum offers an impressive collection of works of art and exhibits. These provide insights into the crafts and economic development of the Waldviertel, among other things.

A special highlight of the museum is the Schlosstheater, which has been designed in the Rococo style since 1883. Here you can also experience the fascinating Whispering Room. This room is rich in wall and ceiling paintings and has a special ceiling construction that allows whispered words to be transmitted from one corner of the room to the diagonal corner without being heard in the middle of the room. This makes the Whispering Room an extraordinary experience and a popular attraction in the castle museum.

A room with wall and ceiling paintings depicting trees and various plants, reminiscent of Weitra Castle. There is a multi-pane window, an ornate hanging lamp and a door. Near the door is a wooden easel with a sign. The floor exudes historical splendor with its wooden surface.

special exhibitions

 exhibition "Scene Iron Curtain"

The exhibition "The Iron Curtain" in Weitra Castle offers a deep insight into the history of the Iron Curtain and its effects on the region. This permanent exhibition traces the political and social developments of the time and sheds light on living conditions on both sides of the border. Interactive elements and multimedia presentations help to convey the complex historical topic in a clear and understandable way.

Particularly impressive are the exhibits, which include original border posts, propaganda material and personal stories from contemporary witnesses. This exhibition allows you to experience first-hand the dramatic changes and challenges that the Iron Curtain brought with it. A particular highlight is the presentation of the role of Austria and its neighboring countries in the context of the Cold War and the long-term consequences of the political division.

In a dimly lit tunnel, historical exhibits are displayed along the curved brick walls. Photos, documents and artifacts are highlighted on panels and in glass display cases. The tunnel has a vaulted brick ceiling, concrete floor and several spotlights that reveal the historical splendor of Weitra Castle in the Waldviertel.

beer experience world

The "Beer Experience" in Weitra Castle is a fascinating journey through the history of beer brewing in the region. This exhibition is located in the castle's cellar and offers a comprehensive overview of the brewing tradition, which dates back to the Middle Ages. Here you can learn everything about the development of the brewing process, the different types of beer and the cultural significance of beer in the Waldviertel.

The highlights of the exhibition include historical brewing equipment, old recipes and interactive stations where you can test your knowledge of beer brewing. The economic importance of the breweries for the region is also explained and you get an insight into the modern art of brewing. The beer experience is not only a must for beer lovers, but also for families and those interested in regional history and culture.

An arrangement of old wooden barrels and crates stands against a brick and stone wall in Weitra Castle. The barrels are of different sizes, some are standing upright, others are lying on their sides. One crate contains several glass bottles, and next to it is a small wooden cart, reminiscent of the historical splendor of the Waldviertel.

history of the castle

Weitra Castle was originally built by Hadmar II of Kuenring between 1201 and 1208. In 1581, Habsburg Emperor Rudolf II transferred the rule to Baron Wolf Rumpf von Wielroß, who converted the castle into a magnificent Renaissance palace according to plans by the imperial architect Pietro Ferrabosco. Since then, it has been owned by the Fürstenberg family.

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