Wildenstein Castle

Wildenstein Castle, locally known as Burg Wildenstein, lies in the forests next to Bad Ischl, in the province of Upper Austria in Austria.

Although Wildenstein Castle was first mentioned in 1392, it probably dates back to at least the 13th century. 

Since 1419, the castle has been the property of the House of Habsburg and served as the administrative center of the Salzkammergut region. It was devastated by a fire in 1593, but it was rebuilt afterward. In 1715, however, it burned down completely for a second time. This time, it was not rebuilt but abandoned, after which it fell into ruin.

At present, the ruins of Wildenstein Castle can freely be visited. It will take about 15 minutes to walk over forest paths to reach it from the nearest roads. Not a very spectacular ruin; it lacks much architectural detail, but the natural setting makes the visit worth it.

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