Tratzberg Castle, Renaissance castle in Stans, Austria
Tratzberg is a castle complex above the Jenbach valley with a structure of four connected wings enclosing a courtyard and a marble stair tower. The buildings extend across multiple floors on a steep slope and show a mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements in their architecture.
The original building, called Trazperch, was documented from 1296 onwards but burned down in 1490. Emperor Maximilian I granted the land to the Tänzl brothers in 1499, who built the Renaissance castle that stands today with its distinctive wings.
The Habsburg Hall displays extensive frescoes showing the imperial family line, with Emperor Maximilian I and numerous aristocrats of the time depicted on the walls. These painted figures give visitors today a sense of how the ruling family displayed their power and importance.
The castle is easiest to reach via the Tratzberg Express, a shuttle bus that transports visitors up the slope. Guided tours are offered daily from March through September and on weekends in autumn, providing flexibility for different visitor schedules.
Inside the castle is a collection of original Gothic and Renaissance furniture, including a cupboard made specifically for the Teutonic Order. This piece shows the craftsmanship of the time and the religious connections the castle held.
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