Schloss Fridau

Schloss Fridau is a Baroque castle complex in Ober-Grafendorf comprising several connected buildings including the New Castle, Old Castle, administrative building, and garden pavilion. These structures together form a substantial architectural ensemble in Lower Austria.

The estate was first documented in 1299 as Haus zu Fridau and received its current appearance following a reconstruction in 1753 under Maria Theresa. This Baroque-era rebuild shaped the architecture that survives today.

The grand hall displays ceiling paintings by Daniel Gran, showing the artistic skills of 18th-century Austria. Visitors can see these works today and experience the craftsmanship of that era.

The grounds are accessible via a designated parking area at Fridau 31, with just a short walk to the main entrance. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes as the terrain and buildings present uneven surfaces.

Throughout its history, the castle served radically different purposes: it was a textile factory around 1750, a hospital during World War II, and later a Soviet command center. These transformations reflect the complex history of Austria across centuries.