CASTLES RIEGERSBURG

Ruegers Castle (Riegersburg Castle) stands dramatically atop an extinct volcano in Styria, Austria, at an elevation of 482 meters. This medieval fortress, first mentioned in 1138 as "Ruotkerspurch," features an impressive fortification system with three kilometres of walls, five gates, and two trenches enclosing 108 rooms. Owned by the Princely Family of Liechtenstein since 1822, the castle functions as a museum offering visitors access to 25 rooms with exhibitions covering the castle's history and its darker past involving witches and sorcerers. The imposing structure remains a symbol of medieval military architecture in Central Europe.

Schloss Kornberg is a picturesque castle in Styria's Thermen- and Vulkanland region, first documented in 1284 and family-owned by the Counts of Bardeau since 1871. Located along the scenic Schlösserstrasse and Vulkanland Route 66, the castle offers guided tours through private rooms featuring interactive elements. Visitors can enjoy seasonal exhibitions, regional cuisine at the Schlosswirt restaurant, and special events including knight's dinners with medieval entertainment and jazz brunches. The castle operates Wednesday through Sunday, welcoming families and cultural enthusiasts year-round.

Riegersburg Castle perches dramatically atop a 482-meter dormant volcanic crag overlooking southeastern Styria's rolling hills, representing a masterpiece of medieval fortification. Built beginning in 1122 by a knight who constructed the original keep, Riegersburg first appeared in written records in 1138 and remarkably was never successfully conquered throughout its entire history. Owned by the Princely House of Liechtenstein since 1822, the castle was restored after severe 1945 damage and now operates as a museum with 25 of 108 rooms open to visitors. The exhibition encompasses sixteen rooms detailing the castle's history and nine dedicated to witches and sorcery, offering a comprehensive exploration of medieval life and local folklore from this iconic Styrian landmark.