Top 14 Castles around Gurk
Best castles around Gurk are located in the Gurk Valley, Carinthia, Austria, a region known for its Romanesque Cathedral. While Gurk itself is a market town, its vicinity offers several historically significant castles. These structures provide insights into the region's past and culture. The area features a mix of well-preserved castles, ruins, and unique historical projects.
Best castles around Gurk
- The most popular castles is Ruins of Liebenfels Castle, a castle that has been restored and is open to visitors. It features an observation tower and a skywalk.
- Another must-see spot is Taggenbrunn Castle, a renovated castle. Visitors can expect cultural festivals and exhibitions within its historic walls.
- Visitors also love Ducal Castle St. Veit an der Glan, a historical castle. It is notable for its extensive expansion by Duke Bernhard and its role as a ducal seat.
- Gurk is known for its medieval castles, castle ruins, and unique castle building experiences. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, from restored fortresses to ongoing historical construction projects.
- The castles around Gurk are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 15 upvotes and 2 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Friesach Castle Construction
Highlight • Historical Site
Castle construction in Friesach is extraordinary in itself: a hilltop castle is being built on a mountain hill south of the medieval town of Friesach with the craftsmanship from bygone times. The focus of interest is the process of building without the aid of modern equipment. Only through the traditional craftsmanship of those involved, supported by powerful Noriker horses, a castle complex with two towers, palas, curtain walls and chapel emerges in a construction period of around 40 years.
The construction site is a "history laboratory". The visitors can watch the craftsmen supported by ESF funds in their arduous activities, rediscover knowledge that was believed to be lost and thus learn from the past. You will experience everyday life in the Middle Ages, immerse yourself in the Middle Ages, step out of the daily narrow, oppressive time schedule and into a "delayed time". And they marvel at the contemporary medieval handicraft that used to get by without technical aids. You "experience" the authentic working day on a medieval construction site in peace and tranquility.
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Taggenbrunn Castle
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Hochkraig Castle
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At the time of Austria's annexation to the Third Reich, a considerable swastika was erected on Hochkraig.
Nature had done its job and over the years the growth so high that this sign was forgotten.
Only the youngest strokes brought this sign again far visible into the country.
The government wanted swift elimination, but it was not technically possible, because any scaffolding that is attached will endanger the structure ...
Therefore one sees this symbol - strictly forbidden in Austria - symbol of the third realm far ...
Every hiker will know that here in our country nobody looks favorably on this symbol ...
Today, it is probably seen as a memorable reminder ...
For me, as a simple hiker, it is such a ...
It is there, but not as a sign that something is being immortalized here ...
On the photo you can see it - consciously - not!
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Ruins of Liebenfels Castle
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Ducal Castle St. Veit an der Glan
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Tips from the Community
It takes about 1 hour to visit the museum. We found the entrance fee too high for what was offered. But everyone can decide for themselves 😉.
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Still worth seeing even after the renovation.
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The beautifully renovated Taggenbrunn Castle regularly hosts the Taggenbrunn Festival, one of the most renowned cultural festivals in Carinthia. André Heller also curated the exhibition "Zeiträume" (Time Spaces), which is absolutely worth seeing. More information is available at https://www.taggenbrunn.at/de/.
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Duke Bernhard (1202 – 1256) had the castle of St. Veit extensively expanded. When Meinhard II, Count of Gorizia, became Duke of Carinthia in 1286, he ruled the country from Tyrol, which angered many Carinthian nobles, but also the citizens of St. Veit, the state capital at the time. In 1292, Ulrich Graf von Heunburg led the dissatisfied and captured Ludwig, the duke's son.
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Beautifully redesigned castle 👍 https://www.taggenbrunn.at/
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Taggenbrunn was first mentioned in 1142. The ruins of a hilltop castle have been renovated since 2011.
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A great ruin with a great view from the tower. You can relax on the wooden loungers in the courtyard.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles near Gurk offer a unique historical experience?
For a truly unique historical experience, consider the Friesach Castle Construction. This project is building a 12th-century style castle using only medieval tools and techniques, offering visitors a firsthand look at ancient craftsmanship. You can witness stonemasons, carpenters, and other artisans at work, providing an immersive journey back to the Middle Ages.
Are there any castles near Gurk that are particularly well-preserved or restored?
Yes, Hochosterwitz Castle is renowned for its exceptional state of preservation and unique defensive architecture, featuring 14 fortified gates. Another notable example is Ruins of Liebenfels Castle, which has been restored and now features an observation tower and a skywalk, offering great views.
Which castles near Gurk are suitable for families with children?
The Friesach Castle Construction is an excellent choice for families, as it offers an educational and engaging insight into medieval building methods. Children can watch craftsmen at work and learn about history in a hands-on way. Taggenbrunn Castle also offers cultural festivals and exhibitions that can be family-friendly.
What kind of cultural events or exhibitions can I find at castles near Gurk?
Schloss Straßburg, the former seat of the Bishops of Gurk, houses museums detailing the history of the Gurk Church and Diocese, a folklore collection, and an exhibition of 'Women's Artworks'. Schloss Albeck operates as Austria's largest privately owned cultural center, hosting concerts, permanent and contemporary art exhibitions, and theater performances. Taggenbrunn Castle regularly hosts the renowned Taggenbrunn Festival and art exhibitions.
Are there hiking opportunities around the castles near Gurk?
Yes, the region around Gurk offers various hiking trails. For instance, you can find routes like 'Gurk Cathedral – View of Gurk Cathedral loop' or 'The Gurk – View of Gurk Cathedral loop' which are easy and offer scenic views. You can explore more options and detailed routes on the Hiking around Gurk guide.
What are the best times to visit the castles near Gurk?
Most castles and outdoor attractions in the Gurk region, such as the Friesach Castle Construction, are typically open from April to October. This period generally offers the most pleasant weather for exploring and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking. Always check specific opening times for individual castles before your visit.
Can I reach the castles near Gurk using public transportation?
While specific public transport routes to every castle might vary, Gurk and its surrounding towns are generally accessible. For detailed information on reaching specific castles like Hochosterwitz Castle, it's advisable to check local bus schedules or regional transport services, as direct routes might be limited.
Are there any castles near Gurk that offer panoramic viewpoints?
Absolutely. Hochosterwitz Castle, perched atop a 172-meter-high rock, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The restored Ruins of Liebenfels Castle also features an observation tower and a skywalk, providing excellent vistas of the area.
What kind of dining options are available near the castles?
Schloss Albeck features a castle restaurant serving indigenous cuisine, providing a unique dining experience within a historic baroque setting. Many towns near the castles, such as Friesach or Straßburg, also offer local cafes and restaurants.
Are there cycling routes that pass by or near the castles around Gurk?
Yes, the Gurk region is popular for cycling. You can find various road cycling and gravel biking routes. For example, the 'Friesach — Castle Town – Pöckstein Castle loop' is a moderate road cycling route. Explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Gurk guide or the Gravel biking around Gurk guide.
Which castle near Gurk has a direct connection to the Gurk diocese?
Schloss Straßburg has a direct historical connection to the Gurk diocese. It was originally built by Bishop Roman I in 1147, who also constructed Gurk Cathedral, and served as the former seat of the Bishops of Gurk.
What is the historical significance of <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/3514685" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ducal Castle St. Veit an der Glan</a>?
Ducal Castle St. Veit an der Glan is historically significant for its extensive expansion by Duke Bernhard (1202 – 1256) and its role as a ducal seat. It was a central point of power in Carinthia during the medieval period.
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