Description of the attraction
The ruins of the ancient castle Aggstein are one of the most interesting and very mysterious sights of Lower Austria. The castle was founded in the XII century, on very advantageous defensive positions. Previously, the castle occupied an area of 1 hectare, the walls rested on mighty rocks, and the upper part of the castle rose 300 meters above the Danube level.
In 1181, the castle was in the possession of the Künringen family. In 1230, Künringen revolted against Frederick II, who was forced to besiege and capture the castle. A few years later, the former owners of the castle managed to return it back, establishing relations with the emperor. But the quiet times did not last so long, the barons of Künringen rebelled again, but against Albrecht I. Thus, in 1295-96, the castle was again conquered by the troops of the emperor and taken from its owners. But this time too, the Künringen managed to regain the castle. This time they remained full owners until 1355.
In the 15th century, Emperor Albrecht V handed over the castle to Georg von Wald. The emperor wanted to put things in order in the castle, as well as make a kind of customs out of the castle so that merchant ships following the Danube would pay a duty. Such opportunities and unlimited power turned von Wald into a greedy robber. The corrupt practice of plundering passing ships continued until 1477, when the emperor put an end to the theft by capturing the castle.
In 1529, the castle was completely plundered by Turkish troops. This period was followed by a succession of more and more owners, who cared little about the preservation and maintenance of the castle, until in 1930 Aggstein bought the Count of Seilern-Aspag, whose family still owns it today.
In the early 2000s, large-scale renovations were carried out with government support. Within the framework of this project, the masonry was renewed, the sewerage and water supply were repaired, and a banquet hall was created.
Today, Aggstein Castle is visited by about 55 thousand tourists annually.
