CASTLES SIRNITZ

Albeck Castle near Sirnitz, Carinthia, has transformed from a 12th-century fortress into Austria's largest privately-owned cultural centre through visionary restoration in 1987. Elisabeth Sickl purchased the dilapidated castle from the Diocese Gurk and restored it to become a vibrant hub for classical music, fine dining, and contemporary art. The castle now features Austria's largest wood sculpture park, showcasing over 100 artworks created from regional larch wood during international symposiums. Its restaurant serves indigenous Carinthian cuisine including regional fish and traditional noodle specialities alongside Austrian wines and local Hirt brewery beer. The castle hosts year-round exhibitions, seminars, theatre, cabaret, and concerts in an atmospheric historic setting. With its sculpture park, cultural programming, and gourmet offerings, Albeck represents a remarkable fusion of medieval heritage and contemporary artistic expression.

Schloss Albeck is a 12th-century castle in Sirnitz, Carinthia, that has been revitalized into a dynamic cultural and culinary destination. After nearly 1,000 years under ecclesiastical rule, the castle was restored in 1987 and now hosts exhibitions, theater, cabaret, concerts, and seminars throughout the year. The grounds feature Austria's largest wood sculpture park with more than 100 contemporary artworks created from regional larch wood. Its restaurant serves regional Carinthian cuisine and Austrian wines, while a gift shop offers curated souvenirs, making Albeck a versatile venue for culture, dining, and artistic appreciation.