Burgruine Eibenstein, Medieval castle ruins in Raabs an der Thaya, Austria.
Burgruine Eibenstein are the remains of a fortress on a steep cliff above the Thaya River, preserving sections of the north wall and chapel foundations. The structure shows how medieval castles were built in hard-to-reach places to defend themselves and watch over the surrounding area.
The site was first mentioned in 1194 and belonged to the ministerials of the Counts of Pernegg, whose line ended in 1220. After this time, the castle passed to other owners and was gradually left to decay.
The ruins show how medieval residents built fortified homes and chapels on steep cliffs to guard river passages. The site reflects the way local nobility lived and controlled the surrounding lands from this commanding position.
The ruins can be visited throughout the year without charge and are reached via marked paths from the village of Eibenstein. The steep climb requires sturdy footwear and caution, especially in damp conditions.
A large section of the north wall collapsed into the Thaya River in 1867 and still lies on the riverbed. This collapse changed the ruins permanently and makes the water below an unexpected part of what visitors see.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
