Petersberg Castle, Friesach, Austria

Around 1076 Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg, a follower of Pope Gregory VII in the Investiture Controversy, had the Petersberg fortress erected above the town in order to prevent Emperor Henry IV from crossing the Alps. The archbishop also had fierce enemies in the Carinthian ducal House of Sponheim, who after his deposition made several attempts to take possession of Friesach. Constant attacks by Duke Engelbert were finally repelled in 1124. In 1149 King Conrad III of Germany stayed at the castle on his way back from the Second Crusade, as did Richard the Lionheart returning from the Third Crusade in 1192, attempting to elude the guards of Duke Leopold V of Austria.

Today the castle is home to the Friesach City Museum, which features exhibits about the town's history, culture, mining industry and trade.

User Reviews

pepe66ried (8 months ago)
If you visit Friesach, you shouldn't forget to climb to Petersburg Castle. Some of them are in good condition, some of them are already showing their age. During the climb, starting from the parish church of Saint Bartholomew, you can enjoy the city view over the whole of Friesach. Unfortunately there were no castle festivals taking place during the visit - this would have made the visit even more interesting.

Karine (12 months ago)
In good weather, a wonderful place for nature walks with amazing panoramas and immersion in history. Ancient ruins breathe history. I think in winter, too, the view from the top of the city is mesmerizing. Sometimes theatrical performances take place here, judging by the posters.

Leonid Povar (3 years ago)
Very interesting place with beautiful views

Livia Papst (4 years ago)
Very nice ambience

Walter Sailer (4 years ago)
A great castle complex. I'm looking forward to the next time when everything is open again ...

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The choir of the two-aisle grey granite church features medieval murals and frescoes. The white steeple of the church was built in 1816 and has served as a landmark for seafarers.

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