Lockenhaus Castle

The origins of Lockenhaus Castle date back to around 1200, with its first documented mention in 1242. Originally known as “Leuca,” the keep and the ring wall of the core castle are among the oldest preserved parts. Slightly later additions include the chapel tower and the two-aisled Gothic knight's hall with its columns. Fragments of 13th-century frescoes in the window niches of the castle chapel are considered the oldest of their kind in a fortified or secular building in Burgenland. From 1270 to 1337, it was owned by the Counts of Güssing, followed by the Kanizsay (1390–1535) and Nádasdy (1535–1672) families. From 1676, the Esterházys took possession of the castle and remained its lords until 1968. In that year, Paul Anton Keller and his wife acquired the then-neglected complex and began renovations, which continued after Keller's death through a foundation. A controversy surrounds whether Lockenhaus was originally a Templar castle, with evidence such as specific stonemason marks and frescoes supporting this theory.

Lockenhaus Castle is privately owned and serves as a venue for cultural events. The complex is accessible after renovations.