Gars Castle

The only free-standing fortress of the Babenberg dynasty in Austria.

The castle throning over the twin villages of Gars and Thunau was once one of the oldest Babenberg fortifications and at the end of the 11th century was even used as a royal residence for a while.

During the course of the past few years the three-storey Renaissance wing beside the medieval ruin has been partly restored. The large inner courtyard is used during the summer for open air performances of opera. The partly Romanesque, partly Gothic Church of St. Gertude is of great importance both artistically and historically.

Exhibitions and events: Open air events during the summer months