Schallaburg

Schallaburg Castle is a historic fortress located in the village of Schallaburg within the municipality of Schollach, Lower Austria. Situated just five kilometers from Melk in the Mostviertel region, the site was first documented in 1242 as a fortress named Schala. While its origins include Romanesque residential elements and a Gothic chapel, the castle's defining character emerged in the mid-16th century. Beginning around 1540, the Losenstein dynasty extensively renovated the structure into a magnificent example of German Renaissance architecture, heavily influenced by Italian design principles. This transformation included the creation of an elegant two-storied arcaded courtyard featuring cantilevered staircases and intricate terracotta mosaics depicting mythological figures, gods, and animals.

The castle holds significant historical importance due to its role during the Reformation. Under Hans Wilhelm von Losenstein, it became a center for Protestant education with the founding of a Lutheran grammar school in 1574, which operated until Catholic forces under Emperor Ferdinand II closed it in 1627 to restore the faith in the region. Following centuries of private ownership and a brief confiscation by Russian forces in 1945, the property became part of the Republic of Austria in 1955. Today, the castle is well-preserved and serves as a cultural venue, renowned for its unique Mannerist gardens, Renaissance apple orchards, and distinctive gate entrance featuring two massive smoke-spewing dragon sculptures that function as slides for visitors.

Videos

Schallaburg erleben - Ausstellung & Schloss entdecken

Rundgang durch das Schloss Schallaburg (Niederösterreich) Österreich jop TV Travel

Besichtigung des Schloss Schallaburg in Schollach (Niederösterreich) Österreich jop TV Travel

Rundgang durch das Schloss Schallaburg Teil 1 Niederösterreich (Österreich) jop TV Travel