Description of the attraction
The Bernstein Fortress, located on the border between Austria and Hungary, was first mentioned in chronicles as early as 860. Records indicate that Bernstein was a border fortress. In 1199, the fortress belonged to Hungary, in the first half of the thirties of the 13th century it passed into the possession of the Austrian authorities, but already from 1236 it was again in the power of Hungary.
In 1388, the owners of the castle, the Dukes of Anjou, found themselves in heavy debt and mortgaged the castle. Over the next 70 years, Bernstein changed owners frequently. In 1440, the fortress was captured by Frederick III and remained in his power for a long time. In the 15th century, the castle was subjected to several Turkish attacks and sieges, so in 1532 the construction of fortifications began. The gradual destruction of the Gothic style began in favor of the soft Baroque. In 1703, the owners decided to completely rebuild the entire southern part, for which the architect L. Basiani was hired. In 1892, Bernstein was acquired by the Almazi family. At the end of the First World War, Almazi began to rent out part of the castle's premises.
In 1953, the castle became fully operational as a hotel. Today the owners of the castle are the Berger-Almazi family.
The owners of the castle have preserved its unique interior. Guests of the hotel can see the ancient furnishings, furnishings and interiors. The castle is a real museum where you can live. Guests can enjoy the old working fireplace, eat food cooked in the oven, in the real Knights' Hall. The castle has a rich library with about 30,000 volumes of literature. The hotel rooms are also filled with history and antiques. So, in one of the rooms there is a bathroom from the beginning of the 20th century.
Of course, as in any castle, here you will be told some exciting stories about local ghosts.
