Hochosterwitz Castle, an impressive example of medieval architecture, sits majestically on a 172-meter-high dolomite rock in Carinthia. This imposing castle complex is not only a landmark of the state, but also one of the most impressive medieval castles in Austria.
Brief information about Hochosterwitz Castle:
- What is Hochosterwitz Castle? One of the most impressive medieval castles in Austria.
- Where is the castle? 25min northeast of Klagenfurt. Address: Hochosterwitz 11, 9314 Hochosterwitz, Austria.
- Entrance fees and opening hours: approx. 20€, 1st April to the end of October. Here you can find all Times and prices. With Carinthia Card Admission is free
- Particularities: 14 fortified gates, a castle chapel with frescoes and a museum.
- Catering: Castle restaurant with local Carinthian cuisine.
- Suitable for families? Yes, very suitable for children, dogs are also allowed on the castle grounds.
- Time planning: Allow at least 1.5 hours.
Arrival and parking
Getting to Hochosterwitz Castle is easy, especially if you are coming from the direction of the town of Sankt Veit an der Glan. There are enough parking spaces at the foot of the mountain from which you can start the climb to the castle. The well-maintained path offers a pleasant walk, surrounded by the picturesque landscape of Carinthia. It takes about 10 minutes to walk to the lower entrance of the castle. Here you are spoiled for choice. You can either take the elevator up (for an additional charge) or you can walk into the castle.
The castle in general
Hochosterwitz Castle is impressive not only because of its location on a dolomite rock, but also because of its well-preserved architecture. 14 fortified gates, which secure access to the castle, are a masterpiece of medieval architecture. You walk up the castle through these gates. The journey is the destination, however. There is always entertainment, especially for children. On the way up, you can ride a pony, do archery, sword fight, watch blacksmiths at work or shop at the market.
There are defensive towers, drawbridges, a castle chapel, portcullises and archways. From the castle wall, you have a very beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.
Once at the top, you have the opportunity to shady courtyard to sit down and eat. When we got there, it was packed. Hardly anyone kept the 1 meter distance because of Corona. Luckily we had already eaten beforehand. We still look at the Armory and the museum, which takes less than 15 minutes.
The story
The history of Hochosterwitz Castle is as fascinating as its architecture. Originally built as a defensive castle in the 11th and 12th centuries during the Turkish invasions, it was rebuilt and expanded several times over the centuries. The castle remained in the possession of the Khevenhüller family for generations, who maintain and preserve it to this day.
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