Forchtenstein Castle

The approach road to Forchtenstein Castle twists up the mountain to the car park at the summit. The restaurant on the cliff next to the castle has a stunning view of the valley. The castle, originally built by the powerful Mattersburg family and then later rebuilt by the Esterhazys, was a key defense against the terrible Turks. Forchtenstein Castle is still in fabulous condition and the castle tour is particularly interesting. In the museum you see the original equipment used by the Esterhazy army. This is a dazzling display—the largest private collection of armor in Europe. Even the Tower of London with its enormous military museum is not much more impressive. In some ways, the museum of Forchtenstein is even more interesting because it is more personalized. You walk through enormous rooms where the equipment was kept—one complete room of helmets, another of spears, another of saddlebags. What a dramatic reminder of the power, wealth, and splendor of the Austrian nobility! The armory is not all there is to see, however. The kitchen is also very interesting with its giant spit over an open fire—seemingly large enough to roast meat for an army, which it probably did. In the courtyard there is a well over 120 meters deep which was dug by some of the less fortunate Turks who were captured and had to work as slaves. Also on display are other mementos of the battles with the Turks: you will see many captured weapons and, most interesting of all, a wonderful Turkish tent, probably used by the commanding officer. In one of the corridors of the castle is an assortment of elaborate coaches and sleighs used by the Esterhazy family. All in all, it is a wonderful museum.