Perched high on a rock and visible from afar, Rosenburg Castle sits enthroned in the romantic Kamptal valley. It is considered one of the most beautiful excursion destinations in Lower Austria. The diverse offers provide everything for a perfect excursion experience. Spend a wonderful day at Rosenburg Castle. Immerse yourself in the world of the Renaissance and experience the magic of the castle and its gardens, the fascination of the birds of prey in the Renaissance falconry and the many spectacular events.
The Rosenburg owes its name to the knight Gozwin de Rosenberg
Legend has it that 1000 years ago, a knight named Gozwin lived on a rock in the Kamptal in what is now the Waldviertel. In gratitude for his glorious deeds, Gozwin was knighted by Leopold V. He chose the name Gozwin de Rosenberg. The beautifully blooming wild roses on the Kamptal rock inspired him to give it his name.
Until the beginning of the 20th century, a magnificent Renaissance garden was laid out on today's viewing terrace. The layout of the gardens at that time can be clearly seen on the old engraving. As part of the "Kamptal Gardens" initiative and the associated "Festival of Kamptal Gardens", extensive adaptations were made in 2005. The most important changes were the unique rose wall in the former tournament courtyard, the romantic wild rose garden in the moat and the plantings in front of the main gate.
Since then, the climbing rose wall has stretched over a total length of 120 meters on the west side of the oldest preserved tournament courtyard in Europe. The Rosenburg climbing rose was specially bred for the Rosenburg and when in bloom, the numerous flowers give the impression of an imposing wall of roses.
The castle museum at Rosenburg Castle © RfW, Lichtstark
The rose garden
A beautiful rose garden has also been created in the castle moat. This is located on a historic site that was already used as a pleasure and strolling garden during the Renaissance. Since March 2012, Rosenburg Castle has had a show rose garden, which is entirely dedicated to the rose varieties of the legendary British master breeder David Austin and has been laid out according to his concept. Such a garden is unique in Austria. More than 500 English roses have been arranged here in groups of three to five of the same variety on the newly created terraces. This creates large bushes from the individual roses, which bring out the full beauty of the unique and completely different rose blossoms. Whether you look down over the terraces from above or up from below, it is always an overwhelming sight. During the main bloom at the beginning of June, they show their full splendor and offer a unique fragrance experience. The annual Rose Days have been a highlight of the program since 2015. The Rosenburg climbing rose can also be purchased on site at the castle during the season.
The castle museum
All of the former stately living rooms are furnished with antique furniture and works of art from the Rosenburg Castle furniture depot. The exhibition includes furniture such as cabinet cabinets with inlays or massive chests and closets. The castle museum tour also includes the armory with exhibits from the private collection of the Hoyos family. You will also be guided through the Knights' Hall, the Music Room and the Chapel, where sacred furniture and art objects are on display in the anteroom on the first and second floors.
The falconry museum © RfW, Lichtstark
The falconry museum
The falconry museum provides visitors with a cross-section of the history of falconry. In addition to beautifully preserved specimens of old garments, you can also see a number of specimens of birds of prey.
Special exhibition "Magic & superstition in the Middle Ages"
The exhibition takes you into the magical world of thought in the Middle Ages and shows the occult powers attributed to animals, stones and plants. Here you can marvel at how widespread superstitious practices were in everyday life and what strange methods were used to try to predict the future or defeat one's opponents.
May 1 to October 4, 2025
Special exhibition "Magic & superstition in the Middle Ages" © RfW, Lichtstark
Unesco World Heritage Site: Historic falconry
The age-old tradition of falconry is alive and well at Rosenburg Castle. The Falkenhof at Rosenburg Castle has been working for years to preserve this ancient tradition, where the flying skills of these majestic birds can be experienced at close quarters during the free flight demonstrations. During an exclusive bird of prey demonstration in historical costumes, you can experience the lightness of flight and encounter the king of the skies. Even in the oldest records of our time, the eagle is regarded as a bird of the soul - to encounter it promises happiness.
Since 1987, the focus of the work at Rosenburg Castle has been on breeding and the presentation of historical falconry during free flight demonstrations, in addition to general bird of prey studies. During the demonstrations, visitors learn more about the historical development of falconry, about various breeding programs to preserve species diversity and, of course, about the natural behaviour and habitats of the various birds of prey.
Birds of prey demonstration: "Historical falconry"
Working with falcons, eagles and other large birds of prey.
11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; duration: approx. 40 minutes
Historical falconry on horseback
The falconers in historical costumes offer an authentic insight into falconry during the Renaissance, a time when European falconry was at its peak. As part of the special "Falconry on Horseback" demonstrations, you have the opportunity to experience the unique interaction between birds of prey, horses and hunting dogs up close in the unique ambience of Rosenburg Castle.
Falconry gala - falconers with a passion
In keeping with our guiding principle: Experience history - live tradition, Rosenburg Castle is transformed into a stage for living history: The "Falconry Gala - Falconers with a Passion" invites you on an impressive journey back in time to the age of emperors, knights and the noble art of falconry.
Experience an unforgettable spectacle in a world full of knights, noble horses, loyal dogs and passionate falconers who will whisk you away to the fascinating world of the Middle Ages. Inspired by Emperor Frederick II, one of the greatest patrons of falconry, this elaborately staged show presents falconry as a living passion and historical lifestyle.
The 90-minute demonstration unfolds on the spectacular viewing terrace of the Rosenburg - with a view of the Kamptal, surrounded by history and nature. Falconers present the impressive flying skills of their birds - from hawks and falcons to eagles and vultures - accompanied by an atmospheric show and historical live music. The falconry gala combines tradition, emotion and experience at the highest level - a unique day full of amazement, history and nature.
August 15, 2025
The falconry © RfW, Lichtstark
The knights' tournament 2025 at Rosenburg Castle: Excalibur - A legend awakens
Amidst the impressive backdrop of the magnificent 12th century castle, a unique historical event awaits you, bringing the time of brave knights and noble ladies to life.
The legendary sword Excalibur is coming to Rosenburg Castle for the first time - and with it a new story full of magic, courage and myths. Immerse yourself in a world in which noble knights, proud horses, mysterious elves and seductive nymphs come to life.
Experience the battle between good and evil in a spectacular tournament with blazing swords, heroic fighters, masterful horse dressage and daring acrobatics - uniquely staged against the historic backdrop of Rosenburg Castle. Will Arthur succeed in pulling the sword from the stone and gaining power over Excalibur? Will he defeat evil and fulfill his destiny? Look forward to a thrilling spectacle - with flaming blades, magical creatures and the mystical power of Merlin breathing life into this legend.
October 4 and 5, 2025
October 11 and 12, 2025
The knights' tournament 2025 at the Rosenburg © RfW, Lichtstark
Culinary delights at Rosenburg Castle
The Taverne & Greisslerei and the Schlossgasthof & Hotel**** Rosenburg offer a variety of culinary delights. The seasons are deliberately reflected in the dishes. The ingredients are mainly selected from the region. The knights' dinners with entertainment are very popular and are held regularly in the vaulted hall. Additional dates for groups can be booked at any time. Stylish gourmet rooms, some with a view of the castle, are available for romantic overnight stays.
April 19 to October 26, 2025
https://rosenburg.at
