The castle HOENVERFEN is one of her most impressive and historical medieval fortresses Austriabuilt in a location of unparalleled natural beauty above the Salzach River Valley, about 40 km south of Salzburg.
The castle dominates a 623 -meter -high rocky hill, surrounded by the Alps Bentegaden and the adjacent mountains of Teenen, offering a stunning breathtaking view.
The story of the Castle Hoenverfen begins in the 11th century, when Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg ordered its construction as a defensive fortress, as part of the fortification of the Archdiocese of the Archdiocese.
The castle was built between 1075 and 1078, being an important defense and administrative center. During the centuries, the castle passed through various Salzburg owners and rulers. Also, the castle was restored after fires and expanded in the 12th century and to a lesser extent in the 16th century, and today it presents a unique composition of medieval and Renaissance architecture.
The castle functioned not only as a military base but also as a residence for princes – bishops, hunting shelter, but also as a state prison.
In his dark chambers, various high -ranking nobles and criminals were kept, and there are various reports of torture.
Today, the castle is open to the public and functions as a museum, attracting a large number of visitors from all over the world. Visitors can tour the rooms and rooms, learn about its history, and see historical exhibits, such as a huge collection of medieval weapons.
At the same time, visitors have the opportunity to watch demonstrations with trained predatory birds (eagles, hawks and vultures), highlighting the tradition of hierarchy, (the art of hunting game with the help of predator birds) which has a long history.
It is worth noting, finally, that the Hoenverfen Castle has also been used as a backdrop for films and television productions. The castle became internationally known as the main location in the “Where Eagles Dare” (1968), directed by Brian G. Hutton, starring Richard Burton and Clint Eastwood.