Burg Heidenreichstein, Medieval water castle and museum in Heidenreichstein, Austria
Burg Heidenreichstein is a water castle near Heidenreichstein that rises on a rock above the town and is surrounded by water. Access is through two drawbridges at about 556 meters in elevation, and inside it now functions as a museum showing furnishings and interiors from different periods.
The castle was founded in 1160 and still contains original wooden components from 1186, showing its early building techniques. The structure was expanded and modified over the centuries, including a Gothic gabled cabinet from the 14th century that reflects changing architectural styles.
The castle holds a collection of furnishings from different periods that shows how people lived here across the centuries. The rooms are filled with pieces from Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque times, reflecting the tastes and lifestyles of earlier residents.
Visitors can explore the castle through guided tours filled with information about the rooms and collections. It is helpful to wear comfortable shoes since access is over drawbridges and involves climbing several staircases inside.
The castle contains secret passages hidden within its thick walls that visitors can explore during special tours. These hidden corridors offer a glimpse into the practical security considerations and movement strategies of earlier residents.
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