Heidenreichstein Castle

Heidenreichstein Castle is a moated castle in Heidenreichstein, 17 km northeast of Gmünd in Lower Austria.

Heidenreichstein Castle is situated on a rocky outcrop that only slightly rises above its surroundings. Only the moats, the towers, and the high, rugged walls signal a readiness for defense. The castle is bordered to the south by the Hauswehrteich pond, to the east by the Romaubach stream, and to the west and north by moats.

The castle is only accessible via two drawbridges and a Renaissance gate. The round corner towers have pointed, conical roofs. The battlements of the largest tower are protected by the overhanging roof. The tall keep is the oldest part of the castle complex and is believed to have been built around 1160, while most of the utility buildings were only constructed between the 15th and 16th centuries.

The largely Gothic roof truss with hewn beams is held together by carved wooden pegs, and the roof is still covered with shingles.

The furnishings come from various historical periods; some tables and chests date back to the Gothic era, and old armor and weapons are also preserved.

Similar to Rappottenstein Castle, Heidenreichstein Castle is a minnesinger castle. Like the Babenbergs, Burgrave Heidenreich von Gars strongly promoted minnesang. In 1190, he began the construction of the castle.

The castle had to face its first real test in the 15th century when followers of Jan Hus and rebellious peasants besieged it during the Hussite Wars. However, they were unable to conquer the complex.

The castle has been owned by the Counts Kinsky since 1961 and is partially open to the public.