Tratzberg Castle

Tratzberg Castle (Schloss Tratzberg) between Jenbach and Schwaz was mentioned for the first time in the 13th century. It is one of the most beautiful castles in the Alpine area, dating back to the period between Gothic and Renaissance. Impressive is above all the square courtyard with Renaissance paintings and the wonderful Renaissance chambers. The castle has often changed hands, and was used as a hunting castle by the emperor Maximilian I. and the Fugger family.

When in 1492 AD the castle was destroyed by fire, Maximilian I. didn't rebuild it, but exchanged the ruin with a castle of the Tänzl brothers. In 1500, Veitjakob and Simon Tänzl let rebuild the first part of Tratzberg Castle, which can also be visited today, in beautiful late Gothic style. In the 19th century, it came into the possession of the Counts of Enzenberg which still own it today.

Today, the castle with its Renaissance courtyard covers a surface of 6,800 sqm, and is a real cultural highlight. Via audioguide you can retrace its lively history: The heart of the building is the Habsburg Hall with its enormous family tree of the House of Habsburg, featuring 148 half life-size portraits. Furthermore, you can see the Queen's Chamber with a secret door, the Hunting Hall, and the Armory. Special guided tours are organised for children, which allow them to meet a real knight. Also the arrival is special: The "Tratzberg Express" plyes between the tavern and the castle.