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Grub Castle Ruins
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The Grub castle ruins are picturesquely located near Irnfritz-Messern in the Waldviertel region and are historically part of the Wildberg lordship. First mentioned in the early 12th century, the castle was the ancestral seat of the Lords of Grub, who served as ministerials for the Kuenring family. The site was characterized by its defensive position on a small hill and was tightly integrated into the defensive network of the northern Waldviertel. In the 14th century, the castle passed into the hands of the Lords of Puchheim, who further expanded it. After suffering damage during a siege in the Hussite Wars of the 15th century, the castle was repaired. Its final decline began in the 17th century when administrative functions were transferred to the more modern Wildberg Castle. Today, Grub remains as a romantic ruin, with preserved walls of the palace and sections of the fortifications offering insight into the medieval lifestyle.
- Location: Vienna, Austria
- Top sights: St. Joseph · 82er Haus · Gablitzer Kunstkeller
- Nearby: Purkersdorf (4 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 | 0 | 4 | 10 | 14 | 19 | 21 | 20 | 15 | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 43 | 38 | 46 | 41 | 85 | 91 | 88 | 87 | 79 | 54 | 45 | 43 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Grub Castle ruins near Sieghartskirchen are a decayed ground monument that can be visited freely. The remains are heavily overgrown, but the foundation walls are still recognizable.
Typical hours
Being an unprotected ruin, there are no opening hours. Visiting is possible at any time, but only recommended in dry weather.
Photography
Photography is allowed, with ivy-covered walls offering pretty subjects. A wide-angle lens works well to capture the whole site.
Time needed
A visit to the ruins takes about 15 to 30 minutes, as the site is small. For a thorough exploration with photography, allow 30 to 45 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a walk through Sieghartskirchen or a trip to Mauerbach Charterhouse. The Vienna Woods also offer numerous hikes.
Getting there
The ruins are in a forest patch near Sieghartskirchen and accessible via a field path. Park at the edge of town and walk about 10 minutes.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven and often slippery. Binoculars can help spot details in the higher wall remains.
Geography
Facts
- The first mention occurred in the year 1104.
- The Lords of Grub were closely connected to Altenburg Abbey.
- The site features a prominent, free-standing keep.
- In 1425, the castle was attacked by the Hussites.
- The ruins are currently privately owned by the Hoyos family.
- Archaeological excavations were conducted in the late 20th century.
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.
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Sights in the town Grub Castle Ruins (10)
Nepomuk-Kapelle
Building in Mauerbach, Austria.
St. Laurenz
Church building in Lower Austria.
Peilerstein - Ostgipfel
Mountain in the Vienna Woods, Lower Austria.
Josef Egger
Monument to a local figure.
Pfarrkirche Mauerbach
Church building in Mauerbach, Austria.
Kartause Mauerbach🏛 museum
Building in Lower Austria, former monastery.
Sandstein Klettergarten
Climbing area in the region.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is entry allowed into the Grub ruin?
The ruin is privately owned and has been extensively renovated; tours are mostly only possible from the outside.
Where in the Waldviertel is Grub Castle?
It is romantically situated in the Kamptal near Messern in Lower Austria.
What is special about the renovation of Grub?
It was restored from a ruinous state back to a habitable condition without completely losing its ruin character.
Can the castle be used for photo shoots?
Requests for professional shoots must be directed to the private owners.
Are there hiking trails around the castle?
Yes, the Kamptal has numerous marked hiking trails with views of the castle.
Grub Castle Ruins: where is it located?
Grub Castle Ruins is located in Vienna, Austria.
Grub Castle Ruins: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Joseph, 82er Haus, Gablitzer Kunstkeller.
Grub Castle Ruins: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Grub Castle Ruins: why is it worth visiting?
The Grub castle ruins are picturesquely located near Irnfritz-Messern in the Waldviertel region and are historically part of the Wildberg lordship.
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