Burgruine Kollmitz: A Window into Medieval Austria

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Discover Burgruine Kollmitz, a majestic castle ruin in Lower Austria with panoramic views, rich history, and unique medieval architecture.

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Burgruine Kollmitz

Explore the extensive ruins of Burgruine Kollmitz, a strategically important castle dating back to the 13th century. Located near Raabs an der Thaya in Lower Austria, the well-preserved remains offer panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's rich history.

A brief summary to Burgruine Kollmitz

Ruine Kollmitz, Raabs an der Thaya, 3820, AT
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Monday 10 am-6 pm
Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-7 pm
Sunday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain within the ruins can be uneven and rocky.
Bring a flashlight to explore the darker corners and cellars of the castle ruins.
Check the opening hours of the Jausenstation (snack bar) before your visit, as it is only open during fair weather from May to October.
Combine your visit with a hike in the surrounding Thayatal valley to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Klinger-Mausoleum

Klinger Mausoleum: A Testament to Love and Loss

Burg Raabs an der Thaya

Burg Raabs an der Thaya: A Medieval Marvel

Naturpark Geras

Naturpark Geras: A Wildlife Haven in Lower Austria

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Raabs an der Thaya, follow the marked hiking trails towards Kollmitzgraben. The walk to Burgruine Kollmitz takes approximately one hour and leads through picturesque landscapes and along the Thaya River. The path is well-signed, guiding you past the Kaumbach stream and up the Wirtleiten hill. Look for signs indicating the 'Böhmische Mauer' (Bohemian Wall) and Ruine Kollmitz. There are no costs associated with walking to the castle.
Driving

From Raabs an der Thaya, drive east towards Kollmitzgraben. Follow the signs for Burgruine Kollmitz. Parking is available near the base of the hill leading up to the castle. From the parking area, it's a short uphill walk to the entrance of the ruins. Parking is free. Be aware that parking might be limited during peak season.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transport to Burgruine Kollmitz, you can take a bus to Raabs an der Thaya. From the Raabs/Thaya Mittelschule bus stop, it is approximately a 1-hour walk to the castle. Bus line 881 serves this stop. Check the VOR (Verkehrsverbund Ost-Region) website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. A single VOR ticket for a short trip within the region costs around €2.40.

Discover more about Burgruine Kollmitz

Burgruine Kollmitz, situated east of Raabs an der Thaya in Lower Austria, is a sprawling castle ruin that stands as a testament to the region's medieval history and strategic importance. The castle's origins trace back to the 13th century, with the main tower completed in 1319. Some accounts suggest earlier constructions by the Cholmunzer family. Strategically positioned on a steep, rocky ridge encircled by the Thaya River, Kollmitz was a formidable defense against incursions from Bohemia. Over the centuries, it was owned by various noble families, including the Wallsee and Hofkirchen families, each contributing to its expansion and modernization. The Hofkirchen family controlled the castle for two centuries until 1611. Visitors can explore the extensive grounds, including the semi-circular gate tower, the round corner tower, and the remains of a two-level residential building. The keep, with its impressive 2.9-meter-thick walls and 25-meter height, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. A unique feature is the Bohemian or Devil's Wall, a large, freestanding curtain wall located about 400 meters north of the castle, which defended the road leading to the castle. By the 18th century, the castle's practical purpose had diminished, and it fell into disrepair. The roofs were removed around 1800 due to roof taxes imposed during the Napoleonic Wars. Today, Burgruine Kollmitz is owned by the town of Raabs and cared for by the Society for the Preservation of the Kollmitz Ruins.

Explore the best of what Burgruine Kollmitz has to offer

Escape to Přehrada Znojmo: A peaceful reservoir in Podyjí National Park offering scenic trails and a tranquil retreat near historic Znojmo.

Discover the Klinger Mausoleum near Raabs an der Thaya: a poignant monument of love, loss, and Austrian funerary architecture in a serene Waldviertel setting.