Burg Kreuzenstein, also called Kreuzenstein Castle, is nestled in Lower Austria, Austria, just north of Vienna.
This castle is 265 meters above sea level and was built on the ruins of an old medieval castle that fell apart and was demolished during the Thirty Years’ War.
It’s also one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe.
The Medieval Castle Of The Habsburgs
Burg Kreuzenstein was initially constructed by the Counts of Formbach in the 12th century.
Over the centuries, the castle changed hands, eventually owned by the Habsburgs. Over time, it fell into disrepair.
Brug Kreuzenstein Was Ruined During The Thirty Years’ War
During the Thirty Years’ War, in 1645, when Swedish forces led by Feild Marshal Lennart Torstensson conquered the castle and partially destroyed much of it.
For many years, the castle remained in ruins.
Reconstruction Under The Counts of Wilczek
In the 18th century, the Wilczek family acquired the castle.
In 1874, Count Johann Nepomuk Wilczek, a noted polar explorer, began rebuilding it.
He used original medieval stones and added pieces from other old buildings across Europe.
The reconstruction aimed to create a castle that looked medieval, even though it was being built anew. This project took 30 years to complete.
The castle’s grounds also feature a recently renovated medieval-style restaurant, Burgtaverne Kreuzenstein, where guests can enjoy a meal or drink while soaking in the historic ambiance.
The castle also hosts a falconry show and has a medieval-style restaurant.
Architectural Marvels of Burg Kreuzenstein
Burg Kreuzenstein is a fascinating blend of original medieval architecture and 19th-century reconstruction.
When Count Johann Nepomuk Wilczek decided to rebuild the castle, he aimed to create a structure that looked authentically medieval.
To achieve this, he incorporated original stones from the ruins and added sections from other medieval buildings across Europe.
The architectural style of Burg Kreuzenstein is primarily Romanesque-Gothic.
This is evident in the pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate stonework seen throughout the castle.
Visiting Information
Burg Kreuzenstein is open to visitors daily from April 1st to November 1st.
The castle’s opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sundays and holidays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Guided tours are available and provide deeper insights into the castle’s rich history and architectural marvels.