Schloss Landeck (Castle)

At the point where today the Reschen Pass, the Fern Pass and the Arlberg Pass Road meet, the impressive complex was built at the end of the 13th century as a court castle and administrative center - and by the way, it never served as a seat of power.

Even though it withstood many attacks - such as those from the Bavarians and the Appenzellers - the condition of its substance became increasingly poorer over the years. It wasn't until the 16th century that Siegmund von Schrofenstein had large parts renovated - including the fortification system - and led the castle into a new period of splendor. Among the additions that fell into this time was also the castle chapel, which was dedicated to Saint Stephen.
However, in the late 18th century, a fierce fire raged within the fortress walls, once again bringing much destruction.

After the end of its judicial career in the late 18th century, the castle served as a military barracks and finally as a workers' and poorhouse. It wasn't until the 1940s that the municipality of Landeck took possession of the complex and began renovations in the early 1970s, laying the groundwork for its current use - which is wide-ranging. Today, Landeck Castle is considered a melting pot of art, culture, preservation of regional traditions, and all kinds of events.

The local museum set up here vividly tells the eventful history of the Tyrolean Oberland and the Upper Inn Valley. The permanent exhibition "Stay or Go" deals with the fates of the people from the region, who either remained loyal to their homeland or took on the difficulties of starting a new life in a distant place. The interplay between accepting a meager life in the homeland and the opportunity-filled emigration gives visitors an insight into regional life, which included both agricultural struggle for survival, as well as periods of war and eerie superstitions that led to cruel witch trials.

This atmosphere of torn homeland feelings is also reflected in a special exhibit in the museum - the emotionally illustrated oldest deck of cards in the German-speaking world, a find from the neighboring town of Fließ.

Another exhibition addresses the tragic fate of the so-called "Swabian children", who were sold on their own "children's markets" in times of extreme poverty. Most of them had to work abroad - mainly in Swabia - in tasks that were anything but dissimilar to those of slaves. The harsh fate was borne on the backs of the children and draws parallels to the unfortunately still current issue of child labor.

At Landeck Castle, children no longer have to work - rather, their thirst for knowledge and curiosity is supported, and exciting children's tours are offered, in which the hidden treasures of the castle are also sought. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy the craftsmanship of regional and international artists in the gallery wing housed in the tower.

Finally, Landeck Castle has a special place in local events. In addition to wine tastings and conferences, there are also exhilarating concerts in the gothic-style castle hall. And as the pre-Christmas season arrives, the Oberländer Advent brings a magical atmosphere and brings the festival close to them, as it was celebrated many decades ago - romantic, artistic, and accompanied by traditional music. A real program for deceleration.

For visitors arriving by their own vehicle, parking spaces are available directly in front of the castle.