Burgruine Araburg, Medieval castle ruins in Kaumberg, Austria
Burgruine Araburg is a medieval castle ruin set on a forested hilltop near the town of Kaumberg in Lower Austria. The keep is the tallest and best-preserved structure still standing on the site.
The castle was built in the 12th century and grew into one of the main strongholds of the region. In 1529, during the Ottoman advance toward Vienna, it sheltered people from the surrounding villages.
The name Araburg comes from the Ar(a)burger family and means "eagle castle". Since 1625 the ruin has belonged to the Cistercian Lilienfeld Abbey. A Burgstüberl, the summer plays, the "Georgsfest" medieval market and other events take place at the castle, and overnight stays are possible.
Reaching the ruins requires a walk uphill on a path that is partly steep and uneven, so solid footwear is strongly recommended. Spring through autumn generally offers the most comfortable conditions for the hike.
The 27-metre bergfried was converted into an observation tower in 1901, which is why the ruin can be climbed today. From the top the view reaches the Schneeberg and large parts of the Pre-Alps. The Wiener Wallfahrerweg and the Via Sacra to Mariazell both run over the summit.
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