Hochosterwitz Castle
Perched atop a 175-metre dolomite crag in Carinthia, Austria, Hochosterwitz Castle has dominated the surrounding plain since it was first documented in 860 CE. Its defining feature is a 620-metre winding approach guarded by 14 consecutive fortified gates, built between 1570 and 1583 by Georg von Khevenhüller, provincial governor of Carinthia, as a defence against Ottoman incursions. The Khevenhüller family has held the castle continuously since 1571.
According to a tale recorded by chronicler Jakob Unrest, during a medieval siege by Countess Margaret of Tyrol the starving garrison fooled the besiegers into retreating by hurling a grain-stuffed ox over the walls. The castle is open from April through October and houses armour, weapons, paintings, and prehistoric artefacts.
Visitor information
- Location
- Carinthia
- Country
- Austria
- Tier
- B (Great castles)
- Coordinates
- 46.755, 14.4536
- Official site
- https://www.burg-hochosterwitz.com/en/
Frequently asked questions
- Where is Hochosterwitz Castle?
- Hochosterwitz Castle is in Carinthia, Austria (approximately 46.755, 14.4536).
- Can you visit Hochosterwitz Castle?
- Yes — Hochosterwitz Castle is open to visitors; see the official site at https://www.burg-hochosterwitz.com/en/ for hours and tickets.
- What tier is Hochosterwitz Castle on the Castle Atlas?
- Hochosterwitz Castle is rated B tier on the Castle Atlas — Great castles.
- What can you see at Hochosterwitz Castle?
- Perched atop a 175-metre dolomite crag in Carinthia, Austria, Hochosterwitz Castle has dominated the surrounding plain since it was first documented in 860 CE. Its defining feature is a 620-metre winding approach guarded by 14 consecutive fortified gates, built between 1570 and 1583 by Georg von Khevenhüller, provincial governor of Carinthia, as a defence against Ottoman incursions. The Khevenhüller family has held the castle continuously since 1571.