Trausnitz Castle is an immense hilltop fortress that has kept watch over the town of Landshut since the early 13th century. It is the ancestral home of the Wittelsbach dukes, whose intriguing collections are held in the museum of curiosities inside the castle. Go on a guided tour of the fortress to explore its medieval passageways, chambers and halls.
Start the tour in the New Knights’ Hall and chat with the docent to learn the history of the castle. Emperor Friedrich stayed here in 1235. Ludwig the Rich arranged a wedding for his son and the daughter of the Polish king in 1475.
Make your way through the narrow corridors, before turning through an opening to a terrace with stunning views of Landshut. Stand next to one of the arcades with rounded arches and spot the tall spire of St. Martin’s Church in the foreground.
Back inside, enter the Old Knights’ Hall and appreciate the impressive rib vault ceiling. Among the highlights of the fortress is the Castle Chapel of St. George. Marvel at its intricate religious sculptures preserved from the 1200s. See the stucco pieces adorning the balustrade, among the impressive examples of Bavarian art here. Study the comical aspects of the Fools’ Staircase painting, which covers the themes of love and jealousy.
Visit the Chamber of Art and Curiosities to see the Wittelsbach dukes’ collections. These include artworks and tools from strange lands, scientific curiosities and artifacts from natural phenomena.
Pay for your tour at the reception desk in the Damenstock entrance on the northeastern side of the inner courtyard. The castle opens daily from morning until late afternoon.
Trausnitz Castle is perched at the top of a hill in the southern fringes of Landshut. Arrive at the Landshut Süd railway station and walk northeast for 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) to reach the fortress in less than half an hour. While in the area, make sure to see other nearby landmarks such as Herzoggarten Park, the Ländtor Landshut and the Landshut Museum.
