Description of the attraction
The picturesque ruins of Fedeun Castle are located southwest of Villach on the western spur of the Graschelitzen Mountains, famous for their sheer cliffs. The castle was built in a strategically important place - above the Gail River, where there was a ferry, which was part of the trade road connecting Villach with Tarvisio. The Fedeun fortress included a guard tower built on an island on the river. There was a customs point that collected money for travel from merchants. Living rooms were later added to the towers.
The first written mention of the Fedeun castle is found in the annals of 1311. In the middle of the 13th century, this fortress was conquered by Rudolf von Ras, who was also called Rosegg of Rosenthal. This lord has turned his fortress into a robber's den. His subordinates plundered trade caravans from Italy. In 1225, Bishop Heinrich von Bamberg was able to drive the robber out of the castle, and the looting stopped.
Probably, the decay of the Fedeun fortress began in the 17th century, when people left it.
You can climb to the castle from the east along a steep path in the rocks. Many tourists go up to the castle not only to inspect it, but also to see the surroundings of Villach from its foot. There is an observation deck there.
Today only ruins remain of the Fedeun fortress. The core of the castle, a palace that was built in the 12th century, appeared on the western part of the cliff. Subsequently, it expanded eastward several times. The result of these reconstructions was a large platform in front of the palace and two large towers. A water storage tank was also installed in the yard. On the east side, Fedeun Castle was protected by a deep moat.
