Oberranna Castle, Medieval castle in Mühldorf, Austria
Oberranna Castle is a medieval fortress in Mühldorf positioned at the border between the Wachau and Waldviertel regions in Lower Austria. The structure connects to an adjoining church through a wooden walkway and sits elevated with sweeping views across the surrounding landscape.
The fortress first appeared in written records in 1108 when Pilgrim von Ranna-Grie was documented as part of the Counts of Formbach from Bavaria. Over the centuries it evolved into a significant local administrative center while passing through the hands of influential noble families.
The castle walls display life-size frescoes of former residents, reflecting medieval artistic styles of Austrian noble homes. These paintings offer a window into the lives of the families who ruled here across generations.
Access to the castle runs through the wooden walkway that also leads to the adjoining chapel, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The terrain is hilly and pathways can become slippery depending on weather conditions, so caution is needed.
During renovation work in the 1930s under Laurent Deléglise, a previously unknown crypt was discovered beneath the fortress. This hidden chamber continues to raise questions among researchers about the original function and structure of the stronghold.
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