Burg Wartenstein, Medieval castle in Raach am Hochgebirge, Austria
Burg Wartenstein is a stone castle located on a hilltop at 765 meters elevation overlooking the Schwarza Valley in Lower Austria. The compound features an elongated inner courtyard surrounded by walls that incorporate structures from different periods.
The fortress was built in 1180 by Hermannus de Wartenstein as a border defense for the region. It changed hands repeatedly among different noble families over the centuries and received architectural modifications to adapt to new needs.
The Three Kings Chapel within the castle displays Romanesque architectural details that reflect the tastes of its medieval builders. Visitors walking through it can observe how the builders chose to decorate this sacred space with carved stone elements.
You can enter through the main gate or the pedestrian portal of the gate tower to explore the castle grounds and inner courtyard. Since the site sits on a hillside, wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for walking on uneven terrain.
An old cistern stands in the courtyard, topped with an ornate wrought iron cap from the 17th century. This metalwork reveals how residents treated everyday objects with craftsmanship and artistic care.
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