Schauenstein Castle

Schauenstein Castle, locally known as Burg Schauenstein, lies south of the village of Krug, east of the city of Zwettl in Austria.

The first mention of a Poppo von Schauenstein was in 1175. In 1275, Schauenstein Castle was owned by Hadmar II von Sonnberg, a member of the Kuenringer family. It was probably built in the 13th century on the bank of the Kamp River. Together with the now also ruined Runderburg Castle on the other side of the valley, it guarded the valley and a road from Gars am Kamp to Pölla.

In 1411, Matthias von Rohr was given two parts of the castle in lease by Duke Albrecht IV. In 1430, Schauenstein Castle was sold by the Lords von Rohr to Leopold von Krayg. In 1467, the castle went to Ulrich von Grafenegg, who dedicated it to the Hungarian king Matthias Corvinus. As a result, the castle was besieged and captured by the imperial troops of the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick III of Habsburg. It was rebuilt in 1477.

During the 16th century, Schauenstein Castle was again rebuilt.

In 1622, Schauenstein Castle was owned by Jakob Kuefstein, who probably neglected it. In 1645, the already dilapidated castle was taken and destroyed by Swedish troops. It was never rebuilt and fell into ruin.

This is a very nice ruin in a large wood. It offers beautiful views over the valley. The ruin itself is freely accessible. The 6-storey-high keep can also be climbed, although you have to get the key to the entrance door somewhere in Krug village. There is no charge so long as you return the key.

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