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 who was related to the Kuenringer family. It was probably built during the 13th century on one side of the valley of the river Kamp. 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. Because of this the castle was sieged and taken 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 to 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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