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Dürnstein Castle Ruins
The Dürnstein castle ruins tower high above the Danube in the Wachau valley and are among Austria's most famous historical sites. The fortress was founded in the mid-12th century by the Kuenringer family, who controlled a strategically important position on the trade routes from here. The castle gained worldwide fame through the imprisonment of the English King Richard the Lionheart, who was held here from December 1192 to March 1193 following his return from the Third Crusade. Over the centuries, the complex was expanded several times, but in 1645, during the Thirty Years' War, it fell victim to Swedish troops under General Torstensson, who blew it up. Since then, the once mighty defense system has remained in ruins but has preserved its striking silhouette. Today, the Dürnstein ruins are a popular destination for hikers and tourists, offering spectacular views over the Danube valley and the vineyard terraces of the Wachau.
- Location: Lower Austria, Austria
- Top sights: Dürnstein Castle · Stift Dürnstein · ehem. Klarissinnenkloster
- Nearby: Krems an der Donau (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -1 | 4 | 9 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 19 | 14 | 9 | 4 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 33 | 43 | 39 | 84 | 93 | 87 | 89 | 74 | 47 | 39 | 36 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned here from 1192 to 1193.
- The castle was built around 1140/1145 by the Kuenringers.
- In 1645, Swedish troops destroyed the fortress with explosives.
- A ransom of 100,000 marks of silver was paid for Richard's release.
- The ruins are located at an elevation of 312 meters above sea level.
- Since 1902, regular conservation measures have been carried out on the walls.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Dürnstein Castle Ruins (10)
Kremser Tor
Four-story gate tower from the 15th century in Dürnstein, later converted into a residence.
Karner
Church with cemetery in Dürnstein, a charnel house.
Kuhberg
Viewpoint in Dürnstein, overlooking the Wachau.
Vorburgruine🏰 castle
Ruins of an outer bailey in Dürnstein.
Weinbergschnecke
Viewpoint in Dürnstein, with a view of the vineyards.
Schloss Rossatz🏰 castle
Castle in Rossatz-Arnsdorf, Krems district, Lower Austria.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which famous king was imprisoned here?
Is entry to the Dürnstein ruin free?
How long does the climb from the town of Dürnstein take?
What should you bring for the visit?
Is there a special view from the top?
Dürnstein Castle Ruins: where is it located?
Dürnstein Castle Ruins: what is there to see?
Dürnstein Castle Ruins: when is the best time to visit?
Dürnstein Castle Ruins: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
