Hohenwerfen Castle

Hohenwerfen Castle

Hohenwerfen Castle is located in the town of Werfen in the state of Salzburg, nestled in the valley of the Salzach River, about 40 kilometers from Salzburg. Together with Hohensalzburg Fortress, it forms a pair of “sister castles,” both with histories dating back to the 11th century.

Surrounded by high mountains, Hohenwerfen Castle enjoyed a highly strategic location during wartime, making it easy to defend and hard to attack. The castle was originally built as a bastion fortress between 1075 and 1078 on a 155-meter-high rock. Initially serving as a defensive stronghold, it was later used as a prison, a training camp, and even a hunters’ lodge. After centuries of expansion and restoration, it is now an adventure castle open to visitors, featuring a variety of weapons from different eras of warfare. Nearby, there is also a small hotel where interested visitors can sample local wines. In addition, there is an eagle training center where you can watch eagles being trained if you’re interested.

Climbing up Hohenwerfen Castle allows you to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the stunning surroundings — majestic, lush mountains, cloudless skies, and quaint little houses scattered at the foot of the hills.

Hohenwerfen Castle

Must-visit reason: One of the highest castles in Austria

Continent: Europe

Country/Region: Austria

State/Province: Salzburg