Hohenwerfen castle is located on a 155m high rock outcrop approximately 40km south from Salzburg in the Salzach River valley. The majestic fortress is surrounded by the impressive Tennen and Hagen mountain ranges. Built in the 11th century it is a "sister castle" of Hohensalzburg fortress.
Perched upon a rocky mount with the breathtaking Berchtesgaden Alps lying in the background, Hohenwerfen Castle certainly makes for an epic sight. Built between 1075 and 1078, the castle and its sturdy walls are set in the gorgeous valley of Salzach, which lies just to the south of Salzburg in Austria.
Formerly the castle belonged to the Habsburg family of Austria. The estate is now owned by the state of Salzburg.
Throughout its history, it not only acted as an imposing fort, residence, and hunting retreat for the Archbishops of Salzburg, but also as a state prison.
After World War II it was used as a training camp by the Austrian Gendarmerie (rural police) until 1987.
Among the numerous attractions offered by the fortress are guided tours showing its extensive weapons collection, the historical Salzburg Falconry with the falconry museum as well as a fortress tavern.
Now a museum, Hohenwerfen Castle is well worth visiting for its fascinating history and stunning setting amidst the mountains.
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