Schloss Himmelau, Monastery and château in Wolfsberg, Austria
Schloss Himmelau is a four-sided complex with three round corner towers and a central courtyard in Wolfsberg. A dried-up former moat surrounds the entire structure.
The original tower was first recorded in 1289 and belonged to the Weissenegger family. In 1331 the complex came under the control of the Diocese of Lavant under Bishop Dietrich Wolfhauer.
The chapel displays Gothic wall paintings from around 1480 showing saints in framed sections. These images offer a direct view of how medieval devotion was visually expressed on the walls.
The complex is home to Discalced Carmelite nuns who hold religious services there. Access may be limited, so it is advisable to check beforehand if visits are possible.
The complex represents the only direct monastic foundation from France established on Austrian soil. This happened after the Diocese of Gurk purchased the site and transferred it to the Carmelites in 1902.
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