Cultural Partners / Burg Hochosterwitz
Virtual Tours
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Burg Hochosterwitz: historical experiences in Carinthia
In one of the most beautiful valleys in Carinthia, a 150-meter-high limestone rock rises. On it stands the castle of Hochosterwitz. The rock can be seen from all the surrounding mountains and hills.
Conversely, the view from the castle extends far into the countryside. This includes the mountains of Friesach and the Gurktal valley, Ulrichsberg, the Magdalensberg, the Gerlitzen and the Villacher Alps. You can also see part of the Karawanken and the highlands of the Duchy of St. Veit. In addition, numerous castles and ruins are visible, such as Mansberg, Taggenbrunn, the Kraiger Castles, Nussberg, Liebenberg, Liebenfels and Karlsberg.
An extensive cultural program with concerts, art exhibitions and festivals invites you to discover the castle in all its diversity. The castle restaurant serves regional Carinthian cuisine. In addition to the museum and culinary offerings, you can also immerse yourself in the medieval crafts experience at the castle.
History
For 470 years, the castle of Hochosterwitz has been owned by the Khevenhüller family. In 1541, the Emperor granted it as a fief to the provincial governor Christoph Khevenhüller. In 1561, it then became the property of the provincial governor, Freiherr Georg Khevenhüller. He renovated it from 1570 to 1586 to its present state before dying in 1587.
In his will, he states that he built the castle for the benefit and protection of the people. You can see this will engraved in stone on the castle.
Experience the castle of Hochosterwitz virtually
From the armory to the collection of weapons to the collection of paintings from the Renaissance period: all of this testifies to the history of this unique fortress.
On Discover Culture, you can climb the castle of Hochosterwitz using a free browser tour. You will pass through 11 of the 14 castle gates, from the Hauptmann Gate to the Kulmertor. Along the way, you will see the Guard Museum of the Khevenhüller-Metsch Honor Guard, the Burgkirche church, and the forge. After that, the castle museum opens its armor room with armor, helmets, and a bombarde from the early 14th century. Finally, the attic showcases a photo gallery with portraits of the Khevenhüller-Metsch family.
The majestic castle invites you to discover it in all its diversity. You can find more about the castle on its website. Website.