Aremberg Castle

The castle was first documented in 1166 under the name “Arberg.” Its location on the mountain led to the construction of the complex in the 12th century. Aremberg Castle was the focal point of the immediate imperial lordship of Arenberg, whose family exerted influence at the Viennese court for centuries, rising from counts to dukes. Around 1670, the castle was expanded into a fortress that covered the entire Aremberg and was considered impregnable even by the troops of Louis XIV. After the withdrawal of the garrison troops in 1679, the fortress was captured by French troops three years later. However, an accident during demolition work, which destroyed the castle's water supply, led the French to abandon the site after only one year and render it unusable. Around 1720, the complex was rebuilt as a palace.