Old walls, stories, history, and epic views await visitors at Aggstein.

Aggstein Castle - A Taste of Medieval Times

A tour of Aggstein Castle, which traces its origins to the 12th century, takes you through hidden stairways, courtyards and towers, a dungeon, and a knight’s hall. Visits to the castle's medieval festival in the Spring and the Christmas Market starting in November, offer unforgettable experiences.

Aggstein Castle sits high above the Danube on the hills of the Dunkelsteinerwald Forest. – © uoaei1 / Wikimedia

The Kuenring family is believed to have started construction of Aggstein Castle on the hill high above the Danube in the early 12th century. Three centuries later, the castle's main layout (what you see today) was already there. Renovations of the remains of the complex started in the 19th century. The latest large reconstruction works were undertaken in 2003.

Tours cover the entire premises: hidden stairways, courtyards and towers, a dungeon, a knight’s hall, and even a chapel, which is still in use. Wooden stairs take you to viewing platforms that look over the highest walls. The audio-guided tour explains the everyday life of medieval knights and intensifies the experience.

A famous spot in the Aggstein Castle is the Rose Garden (Rosengärtlein). But the romantic name is misleading since the rose garden is just a rock ledge, where captured prisoners could choose to either starve or leap to their death. You can avoid starvation during your visit, at the tavern inside the castle walls.

The Christmas market in November is an annual highlight at Aggstein. – © Sebastian Weg-Erbauer / Schlossgut Schönbühel-Aggstein

Visit

Aggstein Castle - A Taste of Medieval Times

Hours

March to November, 9:00 to 15:00/16:00/17:00 depending on the season.

Pricing

€ 4.60 to € 6.70