Top 16 Castles around Premstätten
Best castles around Premstätten offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural heritage. Premstätten is home to Schloss Premstätten, a historic castle dating back to 1164, known for its distinctive architectural features and Baroque facades. The broader Styria region features a variety of historical sites, from medieval fortresses to grand palaces, providing diverse exploration opportunities. These landmarks contribute to the cultural significance of the area.
Best castles around Premstätten
- The most popular castles is Eggenberg Palace, a…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Graz Clock Tower (Uhrturm)
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St. Martin Castle
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Eggenberg Palace
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Graz Castle Ruins (Schlossberg)
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Double Spiral Staircase, Graz Castle
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The Graz double spiral staircase, officially known as the Twin Spiral Staircase, fascinated me. Also called the Reconciliation Staircase, it consists of two opposing staircases that briefly merge on each floor, then separate and rejoin. It is open to the public, and you can walk up and down the stairs (free of charge). It is the most important staircase in the architecture of Central Europe. However, it is not the only one, nor the oldest of its kind. It is carved from sandstone. It is located in Graz Castle, which houses the state government. Opening hours: Daily, 7:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
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The extensive landscape park surrounding Graz's Eggenberg Castle, with its valuable trees, is one of the most precious garden monuments in the country.
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Entrance fee is €2, which is definitely worth it.
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A guided tour is mandatory for a visit to the state rooms. It costs €18 for adults, and the park entrance fee of €2 is deducted. Exciting and very educational, the other three museums are included in the price. The coin museum is particularly recommended, where you can learn a lot about the history of money and Balthasar von Eggenberg, the great-grandfather of the owner of the palace and builder of the previous castle.
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History Let's start with the history of the Schloßberg. In the 12th century, a castle was built on the Schloßberg, which also gave the city of Graz its name. A derivation from "gradec" - the Slovenian term for small castle. Since the castle was never conquered, it is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the strongest fortress of all time. Not even Napoleon managed to take the castle in the 19th century. Only when he blackmailed Graz into destroying Vienna by occupying Vienna in 1809 did the city of Graz surrender. With the exception of the bell tower and the clock tower, which were bought free by the people of Graz, the castle was largely dismantled and blown up, a so-called demolition. 30 years later, Ludwig Freiherr von Weldenman created walking paths and a romantic garden on the Schloßberg. During World War II, a tunnel system over 6 kilometers long was built in the Schloßberg, which served as an air raid shelter for up to 40,000 people in addition to the military headquarters. Some of these tunnels are still in use today and include the Schloßberg lift, the fairytale train, the Schloßberg slide, the "Dom im Berg" event hall and a connecting path between Schloßbergplatz and Karmeliterplatz. Since 1999, Graz's Schloßberg and the historic old town of Graz have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Information on opening hours and prices at https://www.museum-joanneum.at/schloss-eggenberg-prunkraeume-und-gaerten
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The Graz double spiral staircase, a twin spiral staircase (that is its official name), was built by stonemasons in the years 1499/1500 during the reign of the German king and later emperor Maximilian I by an unknown master builder from a medieval construction workshop in the Graz Castle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular castles to visit around Premstätten?
Beyond Schloss Premstätten, visitors highly recommend Eggenberg Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its harmonious architecture and cosmic allegories. Another favorite is St. Martin Castle, offering brilliant views of the city. The Double Spiral Staircase at Graz Castle is also a must-see architectural marvel.
Are there any family-friendly castles or sites near Premstätten?
Yes, several castles around Premstätten are considered family-friendly. Eggenberg Palace offers educational tours and a giant park for families to explore. St. Martin Castle is also a wonderful place to linger and unwind with family, offering great views.
What historical significance does Schloss Premstätten hold?
Schloss Premstätten is a historic castle dating back to 1164, serving as the ancestral seat of the noble Lords of Premstätten. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Styrian history and culture, with a lineage stretching back to the 12th century. Its transformation during World War II into a communications and information center also adds to its compelling history.
What architectural features make Schloss Premstätten unique?
Schloss Premstätten is characterized by its three-story, rectangular structure with a striking arcaded courtyard. Its exterior walls feature decorative pilasters, and a bell tower rises from the eastern side. The impressive Baroque facades are a key highlight, and the interior boasts elaborate Rococo plasterwork and painted walls from the 1700s.
Can I visit the interior of Schloss Premstätten?
Schloss Premstätten is currently privately owned by ams AG. While much of its exterior can be admired from outside, interior access may not always be available. It is advisable to check for access possibilities before planning a visit.
Are there any castles with unique architectural elements besides Schloss Premstätten?
Absolutely. The Double Spiral Staircase at Graz Castle is an architecturally impressive Gothic structure. It consists of two opposing staircases that briefly merge, separate, and come together again on each floor, often interpreted as a symbol for eternity and nicknamed the 'Reconciliation Staircase'.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Premstätten?
The region around Premstätten offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including easy to moderate tours like the 'Drinking Fountain – Austrian Sculpture Park loop'. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are challenging trails such as the 'View of Graz – View from Bockkogel loop'. Running trails are also available, like the 'Kaiserwald loop'. You can explore more options in the Cycling around Premstätten, MTB Trails around Premstätten, and Running Trails around Premstätten guides.
Are there any castles with notable gardens or natural surroundings?
Schloss Premstätten is surrounded by a picturesque French garden featuring allegorical figures. Additionally, Eggenberg Palace boasts a giant park that is highly recommended by visitors for its beauty and size.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in the Premstätten area?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich history and architectural beauty of the castles. Many enjoy the educational tours offered at places like Eggenberg Palace, learning about their unique features and past. The stunning views from castles like St. Martin Castle and the impressive design of the Double Spiral Staircase are also frequently highlighted.
Is there a castle in the area with a connection to a famous historical figure?
Yes, Mühlegg Castle has a notable historical connection. The astronomer Johannes Kepler lived in this castle for a short time between 1597 and 1599, and a mill was first mentioned at its location in 1355.
Are there any castles that offer good viewpoints of the surrounding area?
Yes, St. Martin Castle is known for providing a brilliant view of the city. Additionally, the Graz Clock Tower (Uhrturm), located on the Schlossberg, offers panoramic views and is a landmark of the Styrian capital.
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