Rauhenstein Castle

Rauhenstein Castle is one of the most impressive and historic landmarks in the Helenental, a scenic valley northeast of Schwechat, near the spa town of Baden. The castle, which stands on a rocky hilltop, dates back to the 12th century and has a rich and turbulent history. Today, the castle ruins are a popular destination for hikers, history buffs, and festival-goers.

The Origins and Fate of Rauhenstein Castle

Rauhenstein Castle was most likely built by the Tursen knights, a noble family that owned several castles in the region. The name Rauhenstein means “rough stone” and refers to the rugged appearance of the castle. The castle was strategically located to control the trade routes along the Schwechat river and the access to the Vienna Woods.

However, the castle also attracted the attention of various robber barons, who used it as a base for plundering and raiding the surrounding lands. The castle changed hands several times and was often besieged and damaged by the forces of the Habsburgs, the Hungarian kings, and the Ottoman Turks. The castle was rebuilt and repaired several times, but its final decline came in the 18th century, when a new tax system based on roof area made it too expensive to maintain. The castle was abandoned and gradually fell into ruin.

In 1881, the castle ruins were bought by a local entrepreneur, who initiated a conservation project to preserve the historical monument. The project was well received by the public, especially by the visitors of the nearby spa town of Baden, who appreciated the romantic charm of the castle.

The Highlights of Rauhenstein Castle

The most striking feature of Rauhenstein Castle is the keep, or the main tower, which is the oldest and best-preserved part of the castle. The keep was built in the 12th century and is 20 meters high. The walls of the tower are three meters thick at the base and taper towards the top. The tower has four floors, each with a single room and a fireplace. The tower also has a cistern, a dungeon, and a lookout platform.

Another interesting part of the castle is the chapel, which was built in the 13th century and dedicated to St. Catherine. The chapel has a Gothic vault and a fresco depicting the martyrdom of the saint. The chapel also has a crypt, where some of the former owners of the castle are buried.

The castle also has a courtyard, a gatehouse, a drawbridge, and a moat. The castle walls are decorated with coats of arms and inscriptions. The castle offers a panoramic view of the Helenental and the Vienna Woods.

The Ruinenfestl and the Scout Troop

Rauhenstein Castle is not only a historical site, but also a cultural and social one. Every year, since 1993, the castle hosts the Ruinenfestl, a festival that celebrates the medieval heritage of the castle and the region. The festival takes place on the last weekend of April, coinciding with Walpurgis Night, a traditional folk festival that marks the arrival of spring. The festival features music, dance, crafts, games, and food, all inspired by the Middle Ages. The festival also includes a torchlight procession, a bonfire, and a fireworks display.

The castle is also the home of a scout troop, named after the castle. The troop belongs to the Baden group of Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and is composed of young people aged 10 to 16. The troop meets regularly at the castle and organizes various activities, such as hiking, camping, and community service. The troop also participates in the Ruinenfestl and helps with the maintenance and restoration of the castle.

The Current Situation and the Future of Rauhenstein Castle

Unfortunately, Rauhenstein Castle is currently closed to the public, due to frost damage that has affected its structural integrity. The damage was discovered in 2017 and has raised concerns about the safety and preservation of the castle. The estimated cost of the renovation is between several hundred thousand euros and half a million euros, which is beyond the budget of the private owner of the castle. Therefore, it is unclear when and how the castle will be reopened.

However, there is still hope for the future of Rauhenstein Castle, as there are several initiatives and organizations that are working to save and protect the castle. For example, the Friends of Rauhenstein Association, which was founded in 1992, is a non-profit organization that supports the conservation and promotion of the castle. The association organizes guided tours, events, and publications related to the castle. The association also collects donations and sponsors for the renovation project.

Another option for the future of Rauhenstein Castle is to transfer the ownership and management of the castle to a public entity, such as the municipality of Baden or the federal government. This would ensure that the castle receives adequate funding and attention, and that it remains accessible and enjoyable for the public. However, this option would require the consent and cooperation of the current owner, as well as the approval of the relevant authorities.

Villa Rauhenstein: A Modern Residence at the Foot of the Castle

While the castle itself is closed, there is another way to experience the charm and beauty of Rauhenstein: Villa Rauhenstein, a modern residence that is located at the foot of the castle. Villa Rauhenstein is a luxury apartment that offers a stunning view of the castle and the valley. The apartment has two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, a bathroom, and a balcony. The apartment is fully furnished and equipped with all the amenities, such as Wi-Fi, TV, dishwasher, and washing machine. The apartment also has a private parking space and a garden.

Villa Rauhenstein is available for rent for short or long-term stays, for tourists, business travelers, or anyone who wants to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable stay in the Helenental. The apartment is conveniently located near the town of Baden, where there are many attractions, such as the thermal baths, the casino, the theater, and the parks. The apartment is also close to the hiking and biking trails that lead to the castle and the Vienna Woods.

Baden bei Wien, Austria