# Burgruine Hardegg

- **Country:** Austria
- **Coordinates:** 46.717200, 14.258100

Burgruine Hardegg is a historic castle ruin situated on a wooded hill north of Zweikirchen in Carinthia, Austria. Originally constructed before 1134, this small twin castle complex exemplifies Romanesque architecture, later undergoing expansions during the Renaissance. The site consists of two massive towers that were eventually connected by residential buildings to form a courtyard, with thick-walled remnants of the northeastern tower still standing today while the southwestern tower has collapsed. Archaeological evidence suggests the location was occupied even in prehistoric times, and the ruins once offered strategic views of the surrounding Four Mountains and neighboring fortifications within the defensive ring protecting the ducal capital of St. Veit.

The castle holds significant historical value, having been first documented in 1134 under the ownership of the Hardeche family until their line ended in 1176. Over the centuries, possession shifted among notable figures including the Bishop of Bamberg, the Dukes of Austria, and various noble families such as the Khevenhüllers and Leiningers. By the 17th century, rapid changes in ownership and the imposition of an 18th-century roof tax accelerated the structure's decline into disrepair. Despite its ruined state, the site retains architectural features like round Romanesque and pointed Gothic arches, along with visible remains of a forecourt and drawbridge gate.

Currently, the land containing Burgruine Hardegg is privately owned by a local farmer. Public access to the ruins is strictly prohibited due to the acute danger of structural collapse and constantly loosening stones. While visitors cannot enter the site, it remains a recognizable landmark in the region, representing a key component of Carinthia's medieval defensive network alongside nearby ruins like Liebenfels and Gradenegg.

![Photo of Burgruine Hardegg](http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Hardegg%20Ruine%20von%20Eberdorf%2013032007%2001.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burgruine_Hardegg (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)