Eberstein Castle

The origins of Eberstein date back to the 11th century, with a first castle mentioned in 1078. However, this original fortification was located higher up the mountain and is no longer preserved. Today's Eberstein Castle, the so-called lower castle, developed from a collection of residential buildings grouped around an inner courtyard. The complex was a stronghold of the Archbishop of Salzburg in conflicts with the Emperor. By 1223, a distinction was already made between a defensive tower and a lower house. After the Lords of Eberstein died out in the 15th century, Moritz Welzer acquired the property in 1457. Under the Welzers, the lower castle was expanded in the second half of the 16th century. Due to the Counter-Reformation, the Protestant Welzers were forced to sell the castle to the Counts of Christalnigg in 1630.