Castle Route

More recognition for the cultural heritage of the province

Güssing Castle, the oldest castle in Burgenland, is also part of the Castle Road.

(Bild: Schulter Christian)

The Schlösserstraße association, which also includes seven historical sites in Burgenland, wants to be recognized as a European cultural route

Over a length of 1001 kilometers, the Castle Road connects 41 castles and palaces in three countries. With the castles of Güssing, Bernstein, Lockenhaus and Schlaining as well as the castles of Rotenturm, Kohfidisch and Tabor, seven from Burgenland are also represented. Since its foundation in 1987, the association has aimed to increase awareness of the historical sites through joint marketing activities and the exchange of experiences. "We want to become part of the European Cultural Route in order to be included in an exclusive international circle, which also includes the Loire Castles, the Way of St. James and the Viking Route, for example," explains chairman Andreas Bardeau.

Establishing sustainable visitor management
A budget of 1.4 million euros is available for this as part of the Interreg project "Castle Road 2.0". "The money will be used to scientifically examine the shared history, establish sustainable visitor management and an intelligent information service," explains project manager Nina Peischl. The aim here is also to extend the season. The project also has the potential to sustainably safeguard the rich cultural heritage and at the same time further stimulate tourism in the border region between Austria and Slovenia, emphasizes Güssing Castle Manager Gilbert Lang.