Location: Kosternberg, Carinthia Map
Constructed: 12th century
Burgruine Hohenwart, also known as Burgruine Hochwart, Hohenwart Castle, or Schwarze Burg (Black Castle; Slovenian: Črni Grad), is a medieval hilltop castle ruin situated on the rocky, partially wooded summit of Kleiner Sternberg at an elevation of 802 meters above sea level. Located south of the village of Köstenberg in the municipality of Velden am Wörther See, Carinthia (Kärnten), Austria, it overlooks the scenic Wörthersee region. Constructed in the mid-12th century as a fortified stronghold, the castle reflects the feudal dynamics of medieval Carinthia, serving as a residence and defensive site amid shifting noble ownerships and regional conflicts. Today, it stands as an atmospheric ruin integrated into local hiking trails, appealing to history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers seeking a glimpse into Austria's medieval past amid alpine landscapes.
The history of Burgruine Hohenwart begins in the mid-12th century, a
period marked by the consolidation of power in the Duchy of Carinthia
under the Spanheim dynasty. The castle was first mentioned around this
time and was gifted to Duke Heinrich V of Carinthia by Pilgrim von
Pozzuolo, likely as a reward for loyalty or alliance. In 1162, Duke
Hermann, Heinrich's brother and successor as Duke of Carinthia, sold the
castle and its associated estate to Bishop Roman I of Gurk, integrating
it into the ecclesiastical holdings of the Bishopric of Gurk. This
transfer underscored the growing influence of the church in regional
governance.
By 1365, the Bishop of Gurk enfeoffed the castle to the
Counts of Ortenburg, a noble family with extensive lands in the area,
marking a shift back to secular control. Ownership later passed to the
Counts of Cilli (Celje), a powerful Slovenian-Austrian dynasty, until
their male line extinguished in the mid-15th century. In 1456, during
the conflicts surrounding the Habsburgs' expansion, the castle fell to
the troops of Emperor Frederick III, incorporating it into the Habsburg
domains. The exact timing of its destruction remains uncertain—sources
suggest it may have occurred during the 1456 siege or later in the 16th
century amid further regional upheavals, possibly related to Ottoman
incursions or internal strife. Following its abandonment, the site
gradually decayed, with no major reconstructions recorded, preserving it
as a ruin reflective of Carinthia's turbulent medieval era.
Burgruine Hohenwart exemplifies a medieval Höhenburg (hilltop
castle), strategically built on an elevated, rocky outcrop for defensive
advantages, providing panoramic views over the Wörthersee and
surrounding valleys. The layout divides into three successive
courtyards, a design typical of 12th-13th century fortifications in the
region, allowing for layered defense and residential separation. The
oldest sections, dating to the first half of the 12th century (Altburg),
include preserved wall segments in the southern inner courtyard,
constructed from local stone to blend with the terrain.
Most visible
structures in the northeastern outer courtyard originate from the second
half of the 13th century. A prominent feature is the formerly square
bergfried (keep), integrated into the outer defensive wall, with its
eastern section collapsed. This tower includes a pointed-arched entrance
on the western side of the first upper floor, a bay window projection on
the fourth floor's south side, and additional pointed-arched windows,
showcasing Gothic influences. The outer courtyard also houses a double
chapel, likely from the early 12th century, with a partially intact
semicircular apse. Originally flat-roofed and later covered by a steep
saddle roof for protection, the chapel's lower level retains a pointed
triumphal arch, while the upper level's is missing. The choirs were
vaulted, and the west wall features two rose windows, adding an
ecclesiastical elegance to the otherwise utilitarian design. Remnants of
residential buildings, defensive walls, and other outbuildings are
scattered throughout, overgrown with vegetation that enhances the site's
romantic, decayed aesthetic. The castle's compact scale and integration
with the forested summit emphasize its role as a modest yet effective
border fortress.
In its current condition, Burgruine Hohenwart remains a stabilized ruin, with significant structural decay but preserved elements that allow for exploration. The site has not undergone major restorations, maintaining its authentic medieval character amid natural overgrowth. It is protected as a historical monument under Austrian heritage laws, though ongoing erosion and instability pose risks, particularly in areas like the vaulted chapel choirs. The castle serves no residential or administrative function today but is incorporated into the regional outdoor recreation network, functioning as a point of interest on hiking and mountain biking trails in the Nock Mountains and Wörthersee area. It occasionally ties into local cultural narratives but does not host events or exhibitions, emphasizing its role as a quiet testament to Carinthia's history rather than a commercialized attraction.
Burgruine Hohenwart is a low-profile attraction with no dedicated
reviews or ratings on major platforms like Tripadvisor, indicating it
draws primarily local hikers and niche history buffs rather than mass
tourism. Access is free and available year-round, with no formal opening
hours, though visits are weather-dependent in the alpine region—best in
spring through fall to avoid snow or slippery paths. The site is reached
via marked hiking trails from Köstenberg or nearby areas, such as the
Sternberg-Forstsee-Töschling route or Blacky Trail T75, typically
involving a moderate 30-60 minute uphill walk on forested paths
(elevation gain about 200-300 meters). Parking is available in
Köstenberg, and public transport options include buses or trains to
Velden am Wörther See, followed by a short taxi or walk.
Visitors
praise the panoramic views and serene atmosphere but should note
significant warnings: the ruin is highly unstable and at risk of
collapse, so avoid entering precarious areas, climbing walls, or
venturing off paths. Sturdy footwear is essential due to uneven, rocky
terrain, and the site is not wheelchair-accessible. No facilities like
restrooms, signage, or guided tours are present, so prepare with water,
snacks, and a map app. Photography is unrestricted, capturing the
chapel's rose windows or tower against the landscape is recommended.
Combine with nearby attractions like the Wörthersee lake, Pyramidenkogel
tower, or other Carinthian ruins for a full itinerary. For planning, use
resources like Outdooractive for route maps.