Franzensburg Castle

The planning of the Franzensburg was carried out by Johann Ferdinand Hetzendorf von Hohenberg, who divided the complex into two areas, the Knight's Castle and the Squire's Castle. From the outset, it was intended as a museum. During construction, elements from the dismantled parish church of Heiligenkreuz and fragments of older buildings were used, including a reconstruction of the Capella Speciosa from Klosterneuburg, one of the first Gothic-influenced structures in the Danube region. The construction period coincided with the beginning of brick production south of Vienna. Emperor Franz acquired the brickworks in Vösendorf, along with the castle there, to cover material costs. Since 1806, a ferry has connected the mainland to the island; in winter, a wooden bridge serves as a replacement. A stone bridge allows year-round access from the opposite side.