Seeing Seebenstein's Schloss

Just south of Vienna, off the A2 highway, Seebenstein castle beckons those who travel by.  Built between 1180 and 1230, the castle was owned by a series of knights, lords, and in 1824 it became the property of the Princes of Liechtenstein.  In 1942, they sold it to a Mrs. Nehammer who wanted a fitting place for her antique collection.  It remains in private ownership but is open to the public for tours and special events. 

Seebenstein Castle, with it's Renaissance-era decoration at the entrance is complete with the requisite moat, drawbridge, tower and turrets.

This sign designates the castle as cultural property and asks that it not be damaged in times of war.

Cracked walls, crumbling bricks and a vine growing behind a trellis-like window add to the romance of Seebenstein. 

Antique architectural elements are on display as you enter the building...

But I especially like the practical simplicity of the handrail.

An interior courtyard. 

The metal doors found all over Europe are enchantingly beautiful.

This ornate table, set with pewter, features the carved wooden head of a Turk, once upon a time a frequent invader of the region. The dishes on the wall were owned by Emperor Franz Josef's mistress.

A beautiful antique cradle waits by a window.

This very old chandelier is made of Delft blue cups and saucers.

I found the workmanship on this bench to be amazing.

Closer up, we see this cushion is leather, not wood.

A graceful column sings its ode to grapes.

What a sweet collection of children's chairs!

Magnificent carving on this chest and chairs.  

I'm guessing these are angel faces asked to protect the person who sits in this charming chair.

A window in the chapel.  This small chapel is still used for weddings.

Hearts on a crest.

I think this is some kind of clock and alarm.  The guide did not speak English and I don't remember reading a description on the hand-out sheet.  Note to self: sign up for German classes.

Keys to the armory door.

Beautiful workmanship on this suit of armor.

Vines through a window softly.

A well stands in the center courtyard.