Description of the attraction
Güssing Castle is located in Burgenland, Austria. The first mention of the castle dates back to 1157, making Güssing the oldest castle in Burgenland and its symbol.
In 1157, the wooden castle was built by Count Wolfer of Styria, who received the local land as a gift. However, already in 1242, King Bel III confiscated the wooden castle and began to strengthen it, turning Güssing into a massive stone structure. Together with the castles of Wieselburg, Sopron and Lokenhaus, Güssing stood guard along the western border of Hungary. At that time, the castle had a different name - "Novum castrum". After the death of Bel III, the castle was handed over to the Order of St. John in 1246. A little less than 30 years later, Henry II, together with the descendants of Count Wolfer, returned the castle to their possessions.
In the summer of 1524, Francis I received the castle and 60 villages under his control.
In 1683, under the rule of Christophe II, the castle was provided as a refuge for local residents fleeing the approaching Turks. Christoph and his son Adam II led the fight against the Turks.
Since 1700, the castle has served as an arsenal for the imperial weapons. Times have changed, gradually Güssing Castle lost its strategic importance. In 1777, all weapons were removed, and the castle began to slowly collapse. Under Empress Maria Theresa, who did not see the point in expensive maintenance, some of the castle fortifications were partially destroyed.
In 1870, Prince Philip created a foundation to preserve the castle. Currently, all the costs of maintaining the castle are divided between Philip's descendants and the Burgenland administration. Today the castle serves as a tourist attraction, theater performances and concerts are held here. The chapel is used for wedding ceremonies.
