Top 12 Castles around St Lambrecht
Best castles around St Lambrecht are found in Sankt Lambrecht, a market town in Styria, Austria, recognized for its significant Benedictine Abbey. The region features historical structures, including the castle-like elements within the abbey complex, offering insights into centuries of history. Situated within the scenic Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen nature park, the area combines cultural heritage with natural beauty. Visitors can explore well-preserved medieval and baroque additions.
Best castles around St Lambrecht
- The most popular castles is Steinschloss Castle Ruins, a castle…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Steinschloss Castle Ruins
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Obermurau Castle
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Schloss Forchtenstein
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Hungerturm and the ruins of Grünfels Castle
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Oberwölz
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The Forchtenstein Castle stands as a medieval castle, architecturally located at the northwestern corner of the market fortification of Neumarkt in Steiermark in a high valley between the Seetal Alps to the east and the Grebenzen to the west. The name of the Forchtenstein Castle in Neumarkt is said to be derived from the Old High German "forhten" (to fear) and Stein. The economic basis of the castle's dominion has since time immemorial been the collection of toll revenues and the utilization of toll rights. In 1956, Forchtenstein Castle was leased by the European Federalist Movement. Since then, the castle has been an international meeting place, an ideas workshop, and an educational center for the cross-party promotion of European federalism and European integration. Under the idea: "May this castle, in the literal and figurative sense of the word, be a fortress of the European idea!", the castle continued to be operated until 2018. In 2018, the castle was transferred by the previous owner, EFB Steiermark, for a symbolic amount to the EYFON Foundation (European Youth Forum Neumarkt). The Forchtenstein Castle consists in its core of a four-story tower house in the northwest. Defensive walls and other buildings are attached to the tower house in an elongated rectangle. In the southeast, there is a building connected to the "city wall".
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Quick question, since we're traveling with a dog, the Steinschloss hike is also described as a hike without cow contact, is that really true? :-)
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Impressive view of the valley, upstream of the Mur.
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The city's landmark in the middle of the city center
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Remains of Grünfels Castle. Unfortunately, the castle itself cannot be visited. A viewing platform has been set up at the Hunger Tower, from which you have a great view of the city of Murau. The castle was originally called "Lubathein" and was probably built at the same time as Murau under Ulrich I von Liechtenstein. In 1269 it was destroyed by King Ottokar of Bohemia. Otto II of Liechtenstein had it rebuilt in the 14th century. The keep, the residential building, the remains of the fortifications with the hunger tower and the moat have been preserved to this day.
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The castle is the symbol of Murau. Today, the castle itself houses, among other things, the Princely Schwarzenberg forest administration, the castle museum and the Schwarzenberg archive. In the castle museum you get an impression of life in the castle, the history of the family and their rule. The chapel, the dungeon, the old kitchen, the cat hall and the knight's hall are particularly worth seeing. Another highlight is the princely Gobelins collection with artistically embroidered and decorated tapestries.
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Minnegesang has apparently paid off...
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of historical structures can I expect to find around St Lambrecht?
The St Lambrecht area features a variety of historical structures, including castle ruins, fortified abbeys, and residential palaces. The region's history spans from medieval fortifications to later baroque additions, offering a rich cultural landscape to explore.
Are there any impressive castle ruins to explore near St Lambrecht?
Yes, you can explore impressive castle ruins such as Steinschloss Castle Ruins. This spacious ruin, originating in the 12th century, is considered the highest castle ruin in Styria and offers beautiful views from its historic walls. Another notable ruin is Hungerturm and the ruins of Grünfels Castle, which includes a viewing platform with great city views.
Which castles or historical sites offer guided tours or special events?
Obermurau Castle can be visited as part of a guided tour, typically available on Wednesdays and Fridays during specific months. Additionally, the Benedictine Abbey of St. Lambrecht, which includes castle-like elements, often offers guided tours that provide deeper insights into its history and architecture.
Are there family-friendly castles or historical sites in the St Lambrecht area?
The town of Oberwölz, with its well-preserved medieval city wall and fortifications, is considered family-friendly. Exploring its historic center offers an engaging experience for all ages. The spacious grounds of Steinschloss Castle Ruins also provide ample space for families to discover.
Can I find castles with good viewpoints around St Lambrecht?
Absolutely. Steinschloss Castle Ruins offers beautiful views from its historic walls. The Hungerturm and the ruins of Grünfels Castle also feature a viewing platform with excellent vistas of Murau.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near the castles?
The region around St Lambrecht, situated within the scenic Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen nature park, offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find various hiking routes, such as the moderate 'Grebenzen – Schönanger Hut loop' or the easy 'St. Lambrecht Gorge – Wooden sculpture with bench loop'. For cycling, options include challenging routes like the 'Furtnerteich Lake – Podulerteich loop'. Explore more options on the Hiking around St Lambrecht or Cycling around St Lambrecht guide pages.
Is the Benedictine Abbey of St. Lambrecht considered a castle, and what can I see there?
The Benedictine Abbey of St. Lambrecht features significant castle-like structures, often referred to as 'Burg Sankt Lambrecht', historically intertwined with the monastery. You can explore its medieval origins, including a six-story keep (Bergfried) with late Gothic window frames, the historic Schlosskapelle Mariä Krönung (Castle Chapel of Mary's Coronation), and a Baroque residential building. The abbey complex and its gardens are a key cultural and historical landmark.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around St Lambrecht?
The region's castles and historical sites can be enjoyed throughout the year. However, late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most pleasant weather for exploring ruins and outdoor areas. During these months, guided tours are also more frequently available, such as those at Obermurau Castle.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible castles or parts of historical sites in the region?
The Benedictine Abbey of St. Lambrecht, which incorporates castle elements, is generally accessible for visitors, including those in wheelchairs, allowing access to parts of the complex and its gardens. For specific accessibility details at other sites, it's advisable to check directly with the individual locations.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the castles and historical sites in this region?
Visitors frequently appreciate the rich history and the well-preserved nature of the sites. The spaciousness of ruins like Steinschloss Castle Ruins allows for extensive exploration and offers beautiful views. The combination of cultural heritage with the natural beauty of the Zirbitzkogel-Grebenzen nature park is also a significant draw.
Are there any castles that also serve as accommodation or event venues?
Yes, Schloss Forchtenstein, originally a medieval castle, was converted into a residential palace and now serves as a hostel and event location, managed by the EYFON Foundation.
Can I visit any castles that have preserved medieval fortifications?
Yes, the town of Oberwölz boasts a remarkably preserved medieval city wall, three city gates, and fortifications that still give its town center a distinct medieval appearance. The Benedictine Abbey of St. Lambrecht also retains fortified elements, including its medieval keep.
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