Schloss Riegersburg

Schloss Riegersburg Review

Rising some 600 feet above the valley is the mighty and well-restored Schloss Riegersburg, one of Austria's great defensive bastions. The massive fortress perches atop an extraordinary volcanic outcropping with breathtaking views from the top. Originally built in the 11th century on the site of Celtic and Roman strongholds, it has never been humbled in battle; the present structure dates from the 17th century. Archaeological finds have established that there were settlements here more than 6,000 years ago. The castle has weapons displays and rooms with period furnishings, as well as the Burgmuseum (castle museum) and a museum on witches and sorceresses. Until the beginning of this century, you had to climb a winding path for half an hour to get inside; now you can board a glass elevator that whisks you up slanting rails to fabulous views.