Burgruine Federaun

Burgruine Federaun sits atop a steep rock formation above Villach and preserves several wall sections with towers and rooms from the Middle Ages. The rock itself forms the foundation of the fortification and made this location hard to reach.

The castle emerged in the early 14th century and passed in 1351 to Habsburg Duke Albert II, who had it rebuilt. After that, the dynasty shaped the site's history for many years.

The ruins carry the name of a family that once ruled the region, and today still show the floor plans of medieval buildings. Visitors can read how rooms were arranged and how the inhabitants used this rocky ridge.

You reach the ruins by following marked walking paths from Villach that lead step by step upward. Sturdy footwear is recommended because the ground is uneven and paths can become steep.

An old document from King Carloman of Bavaria mentions this place long before the known founding. This rare mention shows that the site's past stretches further back than the stones suggest.