The Hochosterwitz Castle
Nested at 175m on the top of a dolomitic rock in the surroundings of Saint Veit an der Glan in northeastern Carinthia, 14 doors were designed to protect the Hochosterwitz Castle against invasions. The castle invites you to hiking to the summit, although you might opt for the panoramic lift. Heading for the castle’s museum, you will get caught by the fascinating view on Carinthia.
About the Hochosterwitz Castle
It has been proven that the rock on which the Hochosterwitz Castle rests was inhabited during the Bronze Age. Archeological treasures belonging to the Hallstatt culture from the roman era were discovered. Built at the Middle Age, the city underwent profound changes under the control of the archbishop of Salzburg in 1509. Ever since 1571, it is owned by the Khevenhüller family who gave it it's acutal appearance in 1586.
On the site, visitors will not miss the preserved ruins of the old Middle Age castle. You will have to cross many meanders before reaching the ingenious system of doors that mark out the path to the castle. The mountain path directly carved into the rock surmounts deep ravines and enlarges at the Place d’Armes. Those who wanted to walk to the castle had to pass each of the 14 doors that rendered the castle inaccessible to the enemy. Walking to the castle today is still a spectacular experience –although taking the lift also requires nerves of steel!
According to the legend, the castle had been besieged by Margarete Maultasch. The defenders trapped in the castle resorted to cunning to save their lives: they killed the last bull, filled its carcass with rye flour and dropped the animal from the top of the rock of Hochosterwitz. Margarete Maultasch thought that the prisoners had enough food supply to survive and broke up camp. In commemoration of this evemt, we still can see, facing the Hochosterwitz Castle, the Maultasch hill and the portrait of Margarete Maultasch painted in 1580 by Georg Khevenhüller.
Pictures of the Hochosterwitz Castle
For a better overview of Klagenfurt, Carinthia Bus’ team worked with the tourist guide agency AHRE Austria Guide in order to provide you with pictures taken here and there in the city. In case you want to use or publish one of our pictures, we will be happy to send you a higher quality version of the pictures: however, in compensation we would ask you to add a link to our website. Those pictures along with many others taken in Austria can be forward for free –in exchange of a link to our website- by asking us at 
. For further information about our picture archives of Carinthia and the using conditions, please visit Photographic archives of AHRE Austria Guide.
Path leading to the Hochosterwitz Castle
More pictures of the Hochosterwitz Castle
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Excursion by bus to the Hochosterwitz Castle
The bus rental company Carinthia Bus is happy to make available vehicles for your excursions by bus to the Hochosterwitz Castle. Do not hesitate to contact us via email or call +43 6991 952 49 34 if you wish to rent a bus in Carinthia!
Tourist attractions in Carinthia
Klagenfurt
The regional capital of Carinthia hosts many tourist attractions such as the famous "Dragon". More information...
The Wörthersee Lake
The biggest lake in Carinthia presents numerous recreational and cultural activities. More information...
Minimundus
An amusement park close to the Wörthersee Lake which contains miniature buildings from all over the world. More information...
The Landskron Castle
Fascinating castle socked into a mountain inhabited by a colony of free monkeys. You can attend a falconry show or eat at a gastronomic restaurant. More information...
The Hochosterwitz Castle
Impregnable fortress enjoying a dazzling view and having a panoramic lift. More information...
The Obir Grottoes
Exciting shuttle transfer to this mysterious underground paradise. More information...
The Klopein Lake
The warmest waters in Austria, it is the perfect destinations if you are planning a relaxing break. Various activities are at hand for the whole family. More information...
Saint-Paul Abbey
Impressive Benedictine abbey dating from the Middle-Age mainly designed in baroque style and exhibiting rich and varied artistic treasures. More information...
