Burghausen Castle, Medieval castle in Burghausen, Germany
Burghausen Castle is a medieval fortress in Burghausen that stretches 1051 meters along a narrow ridge between the Salzach River and Wöhrsee. The complex consists of six successive courtyards linked by walls, towers and gates, each once serving different functions such as storage, housing and service.
The Wittelsbach family acquired the site in 1180 and expanded it from 1255 as their second residence alongside Landshut. The fortress kept this role until 1503, when the ducal line ended and political importance shifted to Munich.
The name refers to the fortified courtyards that follow one another along the ridge, once separated by gates. Parts of the complex now serve as a venue for concerts and medieval festivals, where visitors wander through former service and living quarters.
The courtyards are partly open to the sky, so sturdy shoes are advisable in rain or snow. From the far end there is a wide view over the Salzach and the Austrian Alps, especially rewarding on clear days.
The Liebenwein Tower is named after painter Maximilian Liebenwein, who lived there from 1899 until his death and decorated the interior in Art Nouveau style. The castle was never taken by storm, a result of its position on the narrow ridge. The Powder Tower, built before 1533, guarded the western valley by the Wöhrsee and is linked to the main castle by a battlement.
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