Top 20 Castles in Bezirk Horn
Best castles in Bezirk Horn are situated in Lower Austria, a region characterized by its historical significance and diverse landscapes, including the Thaya and Kamp river valleys. The area features a concentration of historical sites, from medieval fortresses to Renaissance and Baroque structures. These landmarks are often found amidst natural settings, offering insights into centuries of regional history. The district provides a blend of cultural heritage and natural features for exploration.
Best castles in Bezirk Horn
- The most popular castles is Rosenburg Castle, a castle that features a great location and richly decorated rooms. An inn is available for visitors, and the Graslhöhle cave is accessible within a few minutes on foot.
- Another must-see spot is Ruins of Kollmitz Castle, a castle perched on a rock above the Thaya river. Visitors can observe meter-high walls, two round towers, and ramparts, with guided tours and a snack station available.
- Visitors also love Schimmelsprung Ruins, a castle with significant building walls and parts of the vault remaining despite its advanced state of decay. The castle hill provides a view of the Kamptal and Gars.
- Bezirk Horn is known for its well-preserved castles, extensive ruins, and converted palaces. The region offers a variety of historical structures, from medieval fortresses to Renaissance and Baroque examples, showcasing different architectural periods.
- The castles in Bezirk Horn are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 200 upvotes and 17 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Rosenburg Castle
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Ruins of Kollmitz Castle
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Kollmitz Castle was first mentioned in a document in the 12th century, then it was owned by various noble families, the Geras Abbey, and was left to decay around 1800 when the roofs, attics and false ceilings were removed. Many buildings in the area were built partly from stones and shingles from the castle.
Guided tours are carried out by appointment and there is also a snack station. You can find all information at kollmitz.at.
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Gars Castle Ruins
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The ruins themselves are very beautiful and the view is overwhelming. In summer there are also opera and theater performances here.
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Buchberg Castle
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Schloss Buchberg in its present form was created after a comprehensive reconstruction in the second half of the 16th century. As part of art exhibitions organized by current owner, art historian and museum advisor Dieter Bogner, the castle is occasionally accessible. (Wikipedia)
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Wildberg Castle
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The first written mention of Wiltperch Castle comes from the 12th century. The castle belonged to the Lords of Wildperch, probably a branch of the Counts of Poigen.
After the male line of Hohenburg-Wildberg died out, the castle came to the Counts of Vohburg, partisans of the Hohenstaufen family, as a princely fiefdom at the beginning of the 13th century. Then it came to the gentlemen of Maissau. The Lords of Puchheim, who owned Wildberg Castle from 1432, expanded it into a fortified castle that also served as a place of refuge during the turmoil of the 17th century. At the end of the 16th century they set up a printing house for Protestant writings and converted the castle complex into a renaissance castle. In connection with the Horner Bund, the printing company made Wildberg a center of Protestantism in Lower Austria. Among the numerous tracts printed in the castle was the writing of the castle preacher Johann Tettelbach von Karlstein in 1586: "Christian confession of unanimous consensus, concerns and advice."
Multiple alterations and extensions during the 16th and 17th centuries left only the foundation walls of the medieval complex. The hall, the smoke kitchen and the forge are well worth seeing.
At the beginning of the re-Catholicization in Lower Austria after 1620 the Wildberg Castle was expropriated from the Lords of Puchheim and passed to the Catholic Barons of Traun; from the 18th to the 20th century it belonged to the manor of Altenburg Abbey. In the 20th century it was partially restored by the Wildberg-Kaja Castle and Palaces Conservation Association with the support of the Monument Office. It was planned in which z. To organize exhibitions, sometimes still desolate, extensive building complex. Today, Wildberg Castle is privately owned and not open to the public.
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Wildberg_(Messern)
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Ruins near Sachsendorf
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Part of the former wooden palisades was reconstructed in the 20th century. Information boards provide information about the history of the building. Source Wikipedia
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Walkenstein Castle
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Walkenstein was in 1074 in the possession of the Babenberger, towards the end of the 13th century, the Kuenringer called owners and between 1265 and 1324 called a noble family, which probably had the rule of the Kuenringer as a fief, after Walkenstein.
The Bohemian mercenary leader Jaroslav conquered the castle in 1488, before handing it over to King Matthias Corvinus. In 1645 the Swedes appeared as conquerors.
Johann Ehrenreich Freiherr von Sonnau and Reichersberg had the castle built between 1660 and 1671 in its present form, which after several changes of ownership according to the contract of sale of November 8, 1760 property of the monastery Geras under Abbot Paul Gratschmayer, which initially used it as a manor ]
Abbot Adrian Lambert Zach, who endeavored to place the Stift Geras on an economically broader basis, set up here in 1890 a cold-water spa. In April 1891, the Lieutenancy of Lower Austria gave a negative decision and refused the operating license. It was not until 1893 that Kuranstalt was able to start operating as a medical director with the community doctor Josef Wetchy.
Originally there were 30 rooms for spa guests available, in 1904 an official extension of the spa to later 40 rooms approved [1]
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Oberhöflein Castle
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de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Oberh%C3%B6flein
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Ruins of Ödes Schloss (Stein am Kamp)
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Burg Burgschleinitz
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Only viewable from the outside - no entry
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A lovingly maintained castle ruin in the middle of the Waldviertel Kamp landscape
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Museum of the Kollmitz RuinsThe two former castle rooms in the outer bailey to the right of the entrance have been adapted as a museum and snack bar. Exhibits on the history of the castle and various finds are on display here. A documentation on the life and work of the topographer Georg Matthäus Vischer (1628 - 1696) can also be viewed.VisitYou can get the key for the towers and for the museum visit at the snack bar of the Kollmitz Ruins: open daily from May to October from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in good weather, July & August until 6 p.m.Admission: adults € 2.00, children € 1.00.Free admission for NÖ-CARD holders! For group registrations please call +43 664 4615881 (Mrs. Martina Rieder).
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It looks very impressive - and the festival there is said to be fantastic. Yesterday (7/7/24), for example, Gershwin's "Rapsody in Blue" was performed.
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Living history in the Weinviertel.
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Beautiful old ruin to visit, in summer also a snack station on site
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Castle with 3300m2 of living space from the 11th century. Today it is privately owned and therefore cannot be visited. Story: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Walkenstein http://www.burgen-austria.com/archive.php?id=418 Currently available, for rent. With many photos that clearly show the spaciousness of this property. https://www.willhaben.at/iad/immobilien/d/haus-mieten/niederoesterreich/horn/sie-haben-die-idee-wir-das-schloss-dazu-traumhaftes-anwesen-aus-dem-17- century-for-rent-648264168/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most historically significant castles in Bezirk Horn?
Bezirk Horn is rich in history. The Ruins of Kollmitz Castle, first documented in the 12th century, stands as one of Lower Austria's most important medieval complexes. Wildberg Castle, also dating back to the 12th century, evolved from a fortified castle to a Renaissance structure. Schloss Horn, a stunning Baroque palace, also has roots in the 12th century, showcasing centuries of architectural evolution.
Are there castles in Bezirk Horn that offer unique architectural styles?
Yes, the castles in Bezirk Horn showcase diverse architectural styles. Rosenburg Castle is a prime example of a Renaissance castle, known for its richly decorated rooms. Schloss Horn, on the other hand, is a magnificent Baroque palace with a remarkable collection of Baroque art and furniture. The Ruins of Kollmitz Castle represent medieval fortress architecture with its meter-high walls and round towers.
What kind of views can I expect from the castles in Bezirk Horn?
Many castles in Bezirk Horn offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The Ruins of Kollmitz Castle are perched high above the Thaya river, providing expansive vistas. Similarly, Schloss Horn offers 'breathtaking views' of the area. From the Schimmelsprung Ruins, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Kamptal and Gars, while Gars Castle Ruins also provide an overwhelming view.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Bezirk Horn?
The best time to visit the castles in Bezirk Horn is generally from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for exploring the outdoor ruins and castle grounds. Some sites, like the snack station at Ruins of Kollmitz Castle, are open from May to October. Summer also brings open-air opera and theater performances to locations like Gars Castle Ruins.
Are there dining or accommodation options near the castles?
Yes, visitors can find dining and accommodation options. Rosenburg Castle features an inn where you can take a break and enjoy a snack. The Ruins of Kollmitz Castle has a snack station open seasonally. For a more luxurious experience, Schloss Horn offers exclusive accommodation in newly renovated suites, complete with a spacious kitchen and living area where a regional breakfast can be served.
How accessible are the castles in Bezirk Horn by public transport or car?
While specific public transport details vary by castle, many are accessible by car, often with parking available nearby. For instance, Gars Castle Ruins has a road leading to a parking lot near its entrance. For detailed public transport information, it's best to check individual castle websites or local transport schedules.
Are there family-friendly activities at the castles in Bezirk Horn?
While specific family-focused activities are not detailed for all castles, the historical sites themselves offer engaging experiences for families. Exploring the meter-high walls and ramparts of the Ruins of Kollmitz Castle can be an adventure. Rosenburg Castle's richly decorated rooms and the nearby Graslhöhle cave also provide interesting sights for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in Bezirk Horn?
The region around the castles in Bezirk Horn offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, such as the 'Reblausexpress Cycle Trail' or the 'Kamp Valley Riverside Trail', which can be explored via Cycling in Bezirk Horn. For mountain biking, trails like the 'Kellergasse Scenic Path' are available, detailed in MTB Trails in Bezirk Horn. There are also easy hiking trails, including routes around the Ruins of Kollmitz Castle and Rosenburg Castle, which you can find in Easy hikes in Bezirk Horn.
Are there hiking trails near the castles in Bezirk Horn?
Yes, several castles in Bezirk Horn are situated near hiking trails. For example, a marked hiking trail leads to the Ruins of Kollmitz Castle from Raabs. The Rosenburg Castle is close to the Graslhöhle cave, accessible within minutes on foot. You can explore various hiking options, including easy routes around these historical sites, by checking the Easy hikes in Bezirk Horn guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in Bezirk Horn?
Visitors frequently praise the 'great location' and 'very beautiful and richly decorated rooms' of Rosenburg Castle. The Ruins of Kollmitz Castle are considered 'well worth seeing' for their impressive medieval architecture and historical significance. The 'overwhelming' views from sites like Gars Castle Ruins and the blend of historical grandeur with modern hospitality at Schloss Horn are also highly appreciated.
Can I visit castles in Bezirk Horn that are less commonly known?
Beyond the most popular sites, Bezirk Horn also features less commonly known but equally fascinating castles. Buchberg Castle, for instance, is occasionally accessible for art exhibitions organized by its owners. While less detailed information is available, Oberhöflein Castle also holds historical significance, first mentioned in the 13th century.
Are there any castles in Bezirk Horn that are suitable for events?
Yes, some castles in Bezirk Horn are available for events. Schloss Horn, a stunning Baroque palace, offers its tranquil chapel for events like weddings and baptisms. The entire castle and park area are also available for film productions. Additionally, Gars Castle Ruins has been used as an event center since the 1970s and is a venue for open-air opera performances in summer.
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