Architectural
Impressions
Schloss Rappoltenkirchen, located in the village of Rappoltenkirchen in the market town of Sieghartskirchen, Tulln District, Lower Austria, has a rich and eventful history. The first documented mention of the site dates back to 1210, although it is believed to have been gifted as early as 1186 by the last Styrian Duke, Ottokar IV, to the noble family of Lengenbach. The original name, „Rapotenkirchen,“ suggests that the estate may have been founded by a Count Rapoto.
Over the centuries, the property changed ownership multiple times. In 1358, Duke Rudolf IV renewed the office of the Chief Huntsman of Austria and linked it to the Rappoltenkirchen estate. The first holder of this title was Knight Friedrich von Kreisbach. During this period, the fortress was also known as „Jägerburg“ (Hunter’s Castle). From 1428 to 1468, the Sepeck knights held the fief and transformed the fortress into a castle. A severe earthquake in 1590 caused significant damage to the structure.
In the 19th century, the renowned architect Theophil von Hansen oversaw extensive renovations of the castle between 1869 and 1874. Hansen, famous for his contributions to Vienna’s Ringstrasse architecture, gave the castle its present historicist appearance.
After World War II, the castle suffered damage and was only minimally repaired in the following decades. It was not until the late 1990s that a comprehensive restoration began to preserve its historical legacy. In April 2024, the protected heritage castle was put up for sale, once again sparking interest in this architectural treasure.
Today, Schloss Rappoltenkirchen stands as a testament to the eventful history of Lower Austria, impressing visitors with its architectural grandeur and picturesque setting amidst a vast parkland.
