Burgau moated castle

Most significant water castle in the region

It is believed that the present-day Burgau Castle was built in the 12th century as a fortification against threats from eastern neighboring countries. In the 16th century, the castle was besieged by the Turks, who were, however, repelled. In the 19th century, Burgau Castle transitioned from the Hungarian noble family Batthyány to the market community of Burgau. Today, the round tower of the estate houses the municipal office.

History of the castle in Burgau

The originally fortified structure with a wide moat was a strategically extremely important border fortress against the ongoing threat from the east. While there are no sources referencing the rule of Burgau until the 12th century, the former water castle "Burg in der Au" is first mentioned in a document in 1367 under the rule of the Lords of Puchheim.

On June 24, 1429, Wilhelm von Puchheim sold the fortress and market Burgau to his relatives, the Lords of Neitberg (Neuberg). Other castle holders included the Polheims in the 16th century, who then sold it to Matthias von Trauttmansdorff. From 1665 to 1753, the Counts Trauttmannsdorff owned the lordship of Burgau. Only the new owners, Batthyány, brought economic prosperity to the place. In 1789, Count Karl Batthyány founded the first cotton spinning mill of the old monarchy, thus creating numerous jobs.

The last private owner of Burgau Castle, Ludwig (Lajos) Count Batthyány, was arrested as the Prime Minister and leader of the Hungarian uprising against the Habsburgs and was executed in October 1849. In his memory, a "Batthyány bust" and a memorial plaque were installed in the castle courtyard, which was renamed "Batthyány Square."

In the 19th century, the castle transitioned from the Hungarian noble family Batthyány to state ownership and finally to the market community of Burgau in 1871. In recent years, the main building, the courtyard, and the outer bailey with its distinctive round tower have been restored. During the renovation work, a long-lost spiral staircase was discovered behind vaulted arches. The once-buried moat on the west side of the castle has completed the imposing ensemble since 1998. In September 1999, Burgau received the 4th table of a 5-part stone table series – the Utopia table, which can be seen in the castle courtyard. The round tower houses the municipal office and a castle café, while the outer bailey contains apartments.

Events at Burgau Water Castle

Burgau Castle now serves as a location for many summer events. These events include art exhibitions, concerts, and theater performances. The latter take place in the unique arcade courtyard of the castle. During the Advent season, the entire castle transforms into "A Magic of Christmas" with a unique arts and crafts exhibition, which begins in early November and lasts until Christmas. Spring is also welcomed annually with a fantastic Easter exhibition.