Description of the attraction
Near the village of Bad Ischl are the ruins of the Wildestein castle. The site where the castle was built is distinguished by an excellent position, allowing a view of the valley along the Traun River, which gave the owners of the castle a strategic advantage over possible opponents who wanted to conquer the area.
The first written mention of the fortress dates back to 1392, but it is believed that it was built at least 100 years before this event.
Since 1419, Wildenstein passed into the possession of the Habsburgs, and on August 28, 1593, a great fire broke out within its walls, the consequences of which, however, were eliminated. In 1725 the castle caught fire a second time and was completely destroyed. But only ruins remained in its place.
The authorities and public organizations in Bad Ischl are taking all possible measures to protect the ruins from further destruction. For example, with the help of donations, it was possible to restore a small part of the fortress.
Locals love to tell a legend, according to which, earlier the ruins of Wildenstein housed an order of villainous knights who kidnapped the most beautiful girl who is still waiting for her savior. Any young man who is not afraid to fight a nine-headed dragon on a full moon can become such. And the reward for the feat will be an innumerable treasure hidden under the ruins.
