Artstetten Castle with its characteristic onion domes is surrounded by the extensive parkland of Artstetten Castle Park.
In the southern Waldviertel region, not far from the Danube, Artstetten Castle, with its distinctive seven towers, stands in the midst of an idyllic park. The castle looks back on an eventful history, having served as the family seat and summer residence of the imperial family and becoming the final resting place for the heir to the throne, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Hohenberg. A museum dedicated to the heir to the throne offers visitors the opportunity to encounter one of the most fascinating figures of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy.
A Historic Natural Castle Park to Explore
The private natural castle park of Artstetten ranks among Austria’s most significant historic parks. Here, visitors can stroll through history in the footsteps of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Discoveries such as the idyllic bathing pavilion, the original designs for the park landscapes by Emperor Franz I and Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the chestnut avenue laid out according to geomantic principles, and the rose garden with its “spitting men” await explorers. Especially from May through July, over 1,000 peonies display their full splendor in full bloom.
Cuisine and Hours
In the cozy Schloss Café, you can enjoy the Austrian coffeehouse tradition in an atmosphere steeped in history. Whether after visiting an exhibition, attending church, or going on an outing, the Schloss Café is always worth a visit. It is open from April 1 to November 1 on Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays starting at 10:00 a.m.; in July and August, it is even open daily.
“A Taste of Nobility”
In the former kitchen garden, old, rare fruit and garden plants with “aristocratic names” have found a new home to spark interest in these heirloom varieties and pass on knowledge about them. Soon, visitors will be able to sample the “Emperor Wilhelm Apple” or a “Countess of Paris” pear right on site, or purchase jams, juices, and brandies made from these fruits in the shop.
May through September: Group tours of the museum
Group tours from May through September every Saturday, Sunday, and holiday at 11:00 a.m.
In July and August, additional tours on Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 a.m.
Guided tour of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand Museum
May through October: The special tour “Stories of the Servants”
Every Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:00 p.m. / Additionally on Mondays in July and August at 2:30 p.m.
A journey through time—Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s former butler, Emanuel “Emane” Rak, recounts his eventful life; personal physician Dr. Victor Eisenmenger discusses Franz Ferdinand’s illness; Duchess Sophie’s lady-in-waiting, Elise “Eluska” Fiala, shares behind-the-scenes stories, and governess Leontine “Mademoiselle” de Vathaire tests your knowledge of etiquette—vivid insights into history and everyday life.
More about the events: www.schloss-artstetten.at
Artstetten Castle is one of the treasures of the Nibelungengau region. Discover all the other treasures—full of enjoyment, variety, and breathtaking views—at www.nibelungengau.at!
