Fortress Kufstein
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A popular destination for more than 800 years
For more than 800 years Kufstein Fortress has been visited by all sorts of people. In the early centuries it was mainly hostile armies that wanted to capture the fortress. These days the impressive landmark is popular with people from all over the world.
In 1205, when Kufstein Fortress was first mentioned, it was in the possession of the Bavarian King Ludwig and the bishop of Regensburg. The defence complex was the location of many armed conflicts, and frequently changed ownership. In the 16th century it was extended by Emperor Maximilian I. into a stately fortress, and in 1814 passed into Austrian ownership. Since 1924 it has been the property of the city of Kufstein. Hardly any other historical building manages to combine history and modernity, high culture and pop culture in as impressive a way as the imposing fortress on the green Inn River. Kufstein Fortress offers a varied and exciting programme for everyone: people interested in culture and history, tour groups, and children and families. As well as the classic daytime programme, the dignified building also impresses with attractive special events.
Adventurous journey back into the past
As part of an individual guided tour, visitors can explore the approximately 60 meter "deep well", the underground rock path, a crop plant and herb garden, the "Elizabeth battery" with its cannon barrels, the castle turret with the wooden battlement, and much more. The former state prison in the Kaiser tower, with a special exhibition "Jurisdiction under the Habsburgs", the museum of local history with interesting information about the history of Tyrol, and the special exhibition in the artillery laboratory "Emperor Maximilian and Kufstein Fortress", lets history come to life, and invites guests to take an exciting and interesting journey through time, back into history. Another special highlight is the Heroes' organ, the largest open-air organ in the world, with 4,948 pipes whose sound can be heard well beyond the city every afternoon.
Happiness shared is happiness doubled. Group programmes and incentives
For tour groups and companies, Kufstein Fortress provides tailored offers for almost any group size. The programme can include guided tours, visits to the exhibitions, dinner in the historic casemates, or whatever else the Kufstein Fortress and the guests' imaginations can offer.
Events have been taking place here since there has been a fortress.
There has always been a lot going on in Kufstein Fortress. Of course in the past it wasn't always an "event", but rather "plundering" and "conquest". Fortunately, this has now changed: There are no more armies standing outside the fortress gates. Instead, up to 4,200 guests bustle around this unique event location at all sorts of events – whether open-air events in the covered fortress arena, individually planned private or company events, seminars or incentives. There is also a lot less pillaging than there used to be, which is welcomed by the event technicians. They make sure that the four usable rooms, in the striking Kaiser tower and the fortress chapel, are always equipped with the latest technology. What hasn't changed: The food is cooked in the fortress, individually for every occasion. These days it's known as "catering". It sounds better than in the past, and tastes even better.
Topless, if the weather permits. The fortress arena
The mobile roof of the fortress arena is striking. It not only protects company events, classic concerts and modern live acts from rain; it also underlines the enchanting atmosphere of this old structure. The fortress has already established itself as one of the most attractive event locations in Austria. A variety of events - from the Knights' Festival to the Operetta Summer - take place in this unique historical atmosphere.
Medieval-style platters
Kufstein Fortress is also worth a visit for the cuisine. The "Festungswirtschaft" (Fortress Inn) offers both individual guests and bus groups hearty and traditional cuisine in an unusual historical atmosphere. A particular highlight is the popular and internationally famous "Castle lord's dinner". The chef serves a variety of tasty dishes true to the original style; with advance reservation, for 10+ guests. The evening, garnished with medieval melodies and amusing entertainment, will be an unforgettable experience.