Oberkapfenberg Castle

Oberkapfenberg Castle is located above Kapfenberg, east of Bruck an der Mur in Styria (Austria).

In 1173, a castle called Chaffenberch (castle on the lookout mountain) was first mentioned here. In the 13th century, the Counts of Stubenberg built the current castle as a residence and administrative seat. Around 1550, it was converted into a Renaissance fortress. After the Counts of Stubenberg moved their residence to Wieden an der Mürz Castle in 1739, Oberkapfenberg Castle stood empty and fell into ruin. It was not until 1953 that Count von Stubenberg began rebuilding it into a castle hotel, incorporating the ruins of the old castle. However, in 1985, the tenant went bankrupt and the castle once again stood empty and began to decay.

In 1992, the municipality of Kapfenberg bought the castle. An association was founded to promote its restoration. In 1994, the castle restaurant was opened. For several years, the castle has also hosted a birds of prey show. From 2003 to 2008, an exhibition of historical weapons, as well as a special section on torture methods and instruments, took place. Since April 2009, there has been a new exhibition: BORDER CROSSINGS – A Journey Through Time with Crusaders and Alchemists.

After a landslide in autumn 2011, some archaeological finds were made from "Stubenberg's Kitchen". This is also the name of the special exhibition in 2012 at Oberkapfenberg Castle, featuring pots, bone remains, and children's toys.

Every year in June, the Knight's Festival takes place, which is one of the largest events of its kind in Austria.