Overview:

Schallaburg Castle is an aristocratic castle located near Melk, Austria. It has been a residence of the Princes of Melk since 1555 and is known as one of the hidden jewels of Lower Austria. The castle features a unique mixture of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, along with many period interior decorations. The castle was built in 1554-1556 by Lord Hans Ulrich von Schallaburg and was intended as a residential and fortification complex. Designed in the Mannerist style, it features numerous Renaissance embellishments. The walls and towers are heavily fortified, and the lord's house stands in an inner courtyard. The castle's interior is decorated with frescoes, stucco, woodwork, and tapestries that date to its original construction. It also includes a garden, Baroque theatre, and chapel. Since the Second World War, the castle has been restored and is open to the public for tours and cultural events. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Austria
Prominent Features:

The most prominent feature of Schallaburg Castle is its stunning architecture. Built in the 13th century, the castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Austria. Its intricate facade is highlighted by its three towers and slate roof. The castle can be accessed by a drawbridge and is surrounded by a large moat. Inside, visitors can see a variety of interesting features, including a Knights’ Hall, Knights’ Chamber, Library, Chapel, and much more. The castle also hosts several exciting events throughout the year, such as a jousting tournament and a puppet show. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Austria.

History:

Schallaburg Castle, located in Melk, Austria, is a manor house built in the late 16th century by Count Rüdiger von Starhemberg. The castle was intended as a luxurious residence symbolizing the wealth and status of the Starhemberg family and its lordship of the surrounding region. It also served as a military stronghold, surrounded by zwinger walls, moats, and other defensive structures. The castle was designed in the Renaissance style, and is thought to have been inspired by Italian palaces of the time. It was built with stones from the nearby town of Goberndorf, and decorated with an Italian-style garden, fountains, and an orangery. The castle changed hands multiple times over the centuries, including a period of ownership by the Esterházy family. It was damaged by fire in 1732, and partially reconstructed by the Von Starhemberg family in the mid-19th century. In 1954, the castle was donated to the City of Melk, and re-opened to the public in 1972 as a museum, and as a venue for concerts and art exhibitions. Today, Schallaburg Castle is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the historic architecture and culture of the Austrian Renaissance. It also houses a permanent art collection and hosts a variety of annual events, such as the Schallaburg Festival, which celebrates Medieval and Renaissance culture. Visit one of the famous monuments of Austria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Schallaburg Castle is considered to be one of the finest Baroque palaces in the country. 2. Construction of the castle began in 1580, and it now stands as a testament to the skills of the builders and artisans of the era. 3. The castle was used as a seat of power for the Counts of Schallaburg until the mid 1800s. 4. In 1964, the castle was acquired by the state of Austria and opened to the public as a museum. 5. Schallaburg castle is now home to a permanent exhibition of 11th to 18th century furniture and pieces of decorative art. 6. The Baron of Schallaburg is a famed figure in Austrian folklore – the stories told of his bravery and wisdom have entered the national consciousness. 7. During the summer months, the castle courtyard hosts the unique Festival of Empires, where living history groups recreate scenes from the hall's important periods of history. 8. The castle is surrounded by a well-preserved moat, providing an extra layer of security from attackers. 9. Schallaburg castle is located near the town of Melk at the eastern end of the Wachau Valley. 10. Every year, thousands of tourists visit the palace to admire itsbeauty and take in the stunning views of the Danube River. One of the historical monuments of Austria, it tells the story of a bygone era