Hohenwerfen Castle stands majestically on a 155-meter limestone rock near Werfen, built in 1075-1078 by Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg during the Investiture Controversy. This spectacular fortress commands the Lueg Pass and was part of an integrated defense system protecting the archbishopric's territories. Featuring architectural layers spanning from Romanesque foundations to Gothic expansions and Renaissance modifications, the castle contains a Romanesque chapel, elaborate stone walls, and the distinctive monumental cube tower. Today, visitors can explore the fortifications, weapons museum, and famous falconry exhibitions held within its ramparts. The castle opened to the public in 1987 and remains one of the most visited historic sites in the Salzburg region, offering insight into medieval military architecture and princely-episcopal power.
