| Location | Burghausen, Upper Bavaria, Germany (Google Maps) |
| Open for Visitors | Yes |
| Official Website | Burghausen Castle |
| Rooms Available | Yes |
It rarely happens that a castle makes it to the Guinness World Record. The Burghausen Castle in Burghausen, Upper Bavaria, enjoys this unique feat as the longest castle complex in the world (1051 m). The castle embodied the power and ambitions of the Bavarian Dukes and continues to stand tall as a living testimony to the glorious past of Bavaria. Visit this mesmerizing castle, as it offers a lot of history, culture, and architectural beauty.
Burghausen Castle History
The main castle is believed to be built in 1025, but the castle’s hill had settled as early as the Bronze Age. The Count of Burghausen, Gebhard II, administered the castle between 1027 to 1164. After the partition of Bavaria in 1255, the castle became the residence of the dukes of Lower Bavaria. It remained under the kingship of the Bavarian dukes till the reunification of Bavaria in 1505. This is the period when the castle expanded to its best and biggest through a series of extensions of the castle complex.
The castle also served as an essential military base through the Landshut War of Succession and protected the Ottoman Empire. The castle became a border castle after the Treaty of Teschen in 1779. However, it suffered some damage during the Napoleonic Wars.
Interesting Facts about Burghausen Castle
The Burghausen Castle is the centre of several unique historical events and exciting facets. Here are some:
- It is the longest castle in the world, with a length of 1051 metres.
- The castle’s most famous resident was the wife of Duke George the Rich – Hedwig.
- The marriage of the duke and Hedwig, which took place in the castle, is still remembered as the famous Landshut Wedding.
- It was considered to be the safest castle in the country. The Dukes kept their abundance of gold and silver.
- Films like The Three Musketeers, Vicky the Viking, and 1½ Knights – In Search of the Ravishing Princess Herzelinde have been shot here.
Places to Stay Near Burghausen Castle
Burghausen is a beautiful little town boasting mesmerizing scenic views and lovely architecture. No wonder there are ample places to stay near Burghausen Castle. Hotels like Hotel Post and Bayerischer Hof provide a castle-like living. There are several affordable yet comfortable hotels and homestays available too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the Burghausen Castle?
The castle is managed by the Bavarian administration of state palaces, gardens and lakes, an administrative body that handles and cares for several other similar establishments in the country.
Who built Burghausen Castle?
The Count of Burghausen, Gebhard II, is believed to be the one who contributed the most towards the castle’s building. However, the construction and modernization continued under other residents as well.
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Nitesh Kucchal
Nitesh Kuchhal, an IIM Calcutta graduate, is more than an educator—he's a mentor. With a passion for leadership and entrepreneurship, and travel. He has explored over 20 countries. Beyond teaching, he dives into psychology and discusses social issues. Though he is not a history expert, he enjoys learning about it through books, adding a historical touch to his many interests.
