Burg Plankenwarth, Medieval castle in Sankt Oswald bei Plankenwarth, Austria
Burg Plankenwarth is a castle standing on Jägerberg Hill, notable for its irregular trapezoid layout with a massive medieval square tower on the eastern side. Later baroque modifications expanded the residential spaces and altered the original fortress appearance with additional structures and updated architectural details.
The castle was first documented in 1265 as the seat of the Plankenwarth family before passing to the Ungnad family in 1430 through inheritance. This change of ownership introduced new architectural approaches and marked a shift in how the property was managed and developed.
The castle displays architectural features from different eras: a medieval defensive tower stands alongside baroque additions that shaped its appearance. Visitors can see how spaces from various periods coexist, revealing how different ruling families left their mark on the structure.
Visits require advance arrangement as the castle is privately owned and not open to the public without permission. Access is on foot from a designated parking area, making prior contact with the owner essential before planning a visit.
A physician named Ignaz von Scarpatetti purchased the deteriorating castle in 1913 and converted it into a medical sanatorium until 1954. This unexpected use saved the structure from complete ruin and transformed it back into a residential property.
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