Greifenstein Castle, Medieval castle in Sankt Andrä-Wördern, Austria
Greifenstein Castle is a stone fortress situated on a steep rocky outcrop rising above the Danube valley. The structure features defensive walls, towers, and interior rooms arranged across the elevated terrain.
The Diocese of Passau built this fortress in the early 11th century as their easternmost stronghold. The site changed hands over centuries and underwent significant renovation in the 1800s.
The castle displays rooms that reflect noble life, including a knights' hall and chapel where ceremonies and gatherings took place. These spaces show how residents used the fortress for both defense and social purposes.
The castle is accessible only by foot along a steep path that requires sturdy shoes and some climbing effort. Plan to combine your visit with walking through the surrounding countryside.
The fortress occupied a contested zone between Hungarian and Ottoman forces, facing sieges during these conflicts but enduring them. This positioning made it a critical defensive point along the river.
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