Schloss Traun, nestled in the charming town of Traun in Upper Austria, is a captivating blend of history and architectural elegance. This enchanting castle, with its Renaissance charm and rich heritage, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the stories that have shaped its walls over the centuries.
The origins of Schloss Traun can be traced back to around 1120 when it was first mentioned as a water castle. The noble Trauner family, who were initially part of the free nobility and later served as ministerials to the Otakars, the Babenbergs, and eventually the Bishops of Passau, were the original owners. However, due to various circumstances, including marriages and the loss of fiefdoms, their status diminished over time.
In 1630, Sigmund Adam von Traun, a Protestant, was compelled to sell the castle to Werner t’Serclaes von Tilly, a relative of the famous general Johann T’Serclaes von Tilly. The new owner managed to convert the fief into a freehold estate. However, in 1664, after a prolonged legal battle, Sigmund’s Catholic son, Ernst Graf von Abensperg und Traun, regained possession of the castle.
In 1653, following the genealogical connection to the Counts of Abensberg and the subsequent elevation to the rank of Imperial Counts by Emperor Ferdinand III, the Traun family began to call themselves Counts of Abensperg and Traun. This distinguished family continues to own Schloss Traun to this day.
The current Renaissance-style structure of Schloss Traun was likely built in the latter half of the 16th century by Otto and Otto Bernhard von Traun. The castle has undergone several transformations over the years. A fire in 1620 caused significant damage, and the original square tower can still be discerned from a windowless section of the exterior wall. Georg Matthäus Vischer’s engraving shows that the castle was once surrounded by a wall with round towers, connecting the two wings and enclosing the castle against the surrounding moat.
The baroque façade, added in 1725, enhances the castle's grandeur. By the 19th century, the castle had suffered due to neglect, as it was no longer the primary residence of its owners and was managed by caretakers. In 1884, the moat was filled in, and the outbuildings and even the manor house were converted into rental apartments. During World War II, the castle was heavily damaged by an American aircraft, resulting in the complete destruction of the northwest tower.
Since 1956, extensive renovations have restored Schloss Traun to its former glory. These renovations revealed the drawbridge slots, Gothic windows in the chapel, and scratch plaster ornaments on the forecourt and the surrounding wall. In 1961, the façades of the gatehouse were rebuilt, further enhancing the castle's appearance.
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Schloss Traun is a three-story, eight-axis structure with charming corner turrets. The entrance to the manor house is marked by a round-arched granite portal, and the castle is crowned with a double-hipped roof. The approach to the castle is through a forecourt with an entrance gate, which is believed to be part of the original castle complex. The gatehouse, adorned with a round tower, now stands at an angle to the access path due to the infilling of the former moat and the removal of the no longer needed bridge.
The right wing of the forecourt is a former economic tract, which once housed a brewery active until 1851, after which the brewery rooms were converted into apartments. On the left side stands a small house connected to the gate tract, which serves as the sacristy for the adjacent chapel. These wings enclose a large, tree-lined courtyard, offering a serene and picturesque setting for visitors.
The chapel of Schloss Traun, dedicated to Saint Margaret, was built in 1363 by Hans von Traun and his wife Dorothea. During the Reformation, the chapel served as a Protestant church for about 80 years until 1624. In 1788, following the dissolution of the Church of St. Dionysius in Traun, the chapel became the first parish church. In the 19th century, the chapel was filled with construction debris to create apartments, a false ceiling was installed in the chancel, and the baroque stucco in the nave was removed. The wall paintings were partially destroyed or painted over due to the installation of windows, partition walls, and a staircase to the attic.
Today, Schloss Traun is leased to the state of Upper Austria and serves as a venue for cultural events. The castle's ring wall houses the Traun Local History Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and heritage.
In summary, Schloss Traun is not just a historic monument but a living testament to the region's vibrant past. Its walls echo tales of nobility, conflict, and restoration, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. Whether you're exploring its grand halls, strolling through its picturesque courtyard, or delving into its fascinating history, Schloss Traun promises an unforgettable experience.
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