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Peace Castle Schlaining

Experience history, culture & enjoyment

Directly opposite the Burghotel Schlaining rises the imposing peace castle, one of the most important historical landmarks in Burgenland. Once built as a medieval fortress, the castle has developed over the centuries into a center for culture, history and peace. Today, it invites visitors to immerse themselves in fascinating exhibitions about Burgenland, the Middle Ages and peace research and to experience the special flair of these historic walls.

An exclusive benefit for our guests: hotel guests receive free admission to the peace castle exhibition and can experience history up close.

Request your stay now!

Book your stay online now!

Halloween at Schlaining Castle

Whispers of the Castle

"Whispers of the Castle" Halloween at Schlaining Castle (c) Burgenland Tourism, hum.ai.n.at | AI-generated

Mystical creatures, magical projections, and eerily beautiful surprises: Around Halloween, a fascinating world of thrills awaits the whole family at Schlaining Castle. Follow the glowing trails through the historic walls— do you dare to go in? 

Tip: Round out the experience with a night at the Burghotel and make it a unique treat for the whole family.
Halloween Special 

Experience an extraordinary Halloween event against the unique backdrop of Schlaining Castle. Hundreds of light sculptures, magical projections, and mystical creatures create a mysterious atmosphere within the historic walls. Discover the castle in a whole new light, let yourself be surprised by unexpected encounters, and enjoy a varied program for the whole family. 

Dates:
Oct. 15–18, 2026 | Thu–Sun, 4:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Oct. 22–25, 2026 | Thu–Sun, 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
Oct. 26–Nov. 1, 2026 | Open daily, 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
Tickets and details 

Winter Wonderland at Schlaining Castle

The Glowing Castle Fairy Tale

Winter Wonderland at Schlaining Castle (c) Burgenland Tourism, hum.ai.n.at AI-generated

Magical creatures, sparkling light displays, and an enchanting program for the whole family: During Advent, the historic “ peace castle ” is transformed into a magical winter fairy tale for the first time.

Tip: Round out your stay with two nights at the Burghotel and turn it into a truly unique experience.

Winter Wonder Special 

Enjoy an extraordinary Advent experience in a one-of-a-kind setting. The magic of the place is palpable the moment you step inside: Schlaining Castle is brightly illuminated by kilometers of string lights . Sparkling light displays, Christmas music, knights, and other magical creatures will guide you through the courtyards of peace castle this winter. Surrounded by historic walls and steeped in history, you can experience the special magic of this season with all your senses. Stroll through the atmospherically lit courtyards, enjoy regional cuisine, and look forward to a varied program for the whole family.

Dates:
Nov. 26–29, 2026 | Thu–Sun 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
Dec. 3–6, 2026 | Thu – Sun 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Dec. 8, 2026 | Tuesday 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Dec. 10 – Dec. 13, 2026 | Thu – Sun 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Dec. 17 – Dec. 20, 2026 | Thu – Sun 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Tickets and details 

  • peace castle from the top

Why a visit to Schlaining Castle is a must

One of the best preserved castles in Austria

Schlaining Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Austria. While many castles only exist as ruins, it still radiates its original medieval splendor. The imposing architecture with its thick stone walls, high towers and winding corridors makes it a fascinating experience for visitors.

Center for Peace & International Research

The castle is not only a monument to the past, but also a place of the future. It is closely linked to peace research and is home to one of the few international peace centers in Europe. As the headquarters of the Austrian Centre for Peace, it combines a historic atmosphere with contemporary peace work.

Modern, interactive exhibition concepts

The peace castle offers far more than traditional museum rooms. The interactive and multimedia exhibitions bring the past to life in an exciting way. Particularly worth seeing are

  • Castle stories - Experience the architecture, weaponry and everyday life in the Middle Ages.
  • Burgenland since 1921 - A fascinating journey through the political and cultural development of Austria's youngest province.
  • In Search of Traces: Fragments of Jewish Life in Burgenland – A particularly moving exhibition in the former synagogue in Stadtschlaining.
  • Dark Times: Perpetrators and the Righteous— explores Nazi terror in Burgenland and raises questions about responsibility, courage, and humanity.

Current Special Exhibitions

  • "80 Years of the Burgenland Red Cross " will be on display from May 9 through December 31, 2026, and tells the story of aid, dedication, and humanity in action.
  • "Blech mit Herz – The Fascination of Brass Music in Burgenland " runs from May 26, 2026, to November 11, 2027, and is dedicated to a musical tradition that has shaped Burgenland for generations.

These modern exhibition concepts make the castle particularly appealing to families, history buffs, and school groups. Discover a wide variety of guided tours for both adults and children, and enjoy the diverse range of concerts and cultural events. 

Website of the peace castle

Cuisine & Wine in the castle courtyard

The inner courtyard of peace castle is not only a place of history, but also a meeting place for connoisseurs. Here you will find two first-class gastronomic offerings with something for every taste:

Weinkosterei Vinothek Burgenland

  • One of the largest wine shops in Burgenland, where you can enjoy fine wines from all six Burgenland wine regions. And you can take them home with you at farm-gate prices.
  • A large selection of red wines, white wines, sparkling wines and dessert wines.
  • Perfect for wine lovers and connoisseurs who want to get to know the Burgenland terroir.

Restaurant das Kranich

  • Regional & seasonal specialties in a stylish ambience.
  • An exclusive menu selection that combines traditional Burgenland recipes with modern cuisine.
  • Ideal for a romantic dinner or a culinary highlight during your stay.

Both locations are located in the castle courtyard and are accessible at all times without admission.

The Sisi chestnuts - a piece of imperial history

A special highlight in the castle courtyard are the majestic Sisi chestnut trees, which were planted for the coronation of Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi). 

These historic trees give the castle courtyard a unique atmosphere and are a popular place to linger and relax.

An experience for every taste

The peace castle combines history, culture, enjoyment and nature in one place.

  • For history enthusiasts the castle offers one of the best preserved fortifications in Austria with exciting exhibitions.
  • Wine lovers and gourmets can enjoy Burgenland's wine culture in the wine tasting room or experience the finest cuisine in the Kranich restaurant.
  • Culture enthusiasts appreciate the unique ambience of the castle, which regularly hosts concerts, lectures and events.
  • Hotel guests at Burghotel Schlaining benefit from an exclusive advantage: free admission to the castle exhibition.
Garden in the inner courtyard of Schlaining Castle.
Schlaining Castle in Southern Burgenland.
Inner courtyard of the peace castle in the fall at sunset.
peace castle in summer from above - (c) Florian Schauer.
Inner courtyard with tables at Schlaining Castle.
Inner courtyard of the peace castle.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Where can I find parking spaces around the peace castle?

Free parking spaces are available around the peace castle .

Parking facilities for people with reduced mobility:
There is a barrier-free parking space near the castle bridge/on the main square.

Is the peace castle exhibition barrier-free?

The peace castle is a historic and listed building. It is located on an outcrop of land and is accessible via a bridge from the village of Stadtschlaining. Friedensburg makes every effort to allow visitors with disabilities to enter and stay at the castle. However, due to the historical nature of the castle, itis unfortunately not possible to guarantee or offer accessibility in all areas.

Persons with disabilities are requested to register at the information desk/cash desk by telephone on +43 3355 2306 to ensure a pleasant and smooth visit. An accompanying person will be available if required and if booked in advance by telephone.

Visitors who are dependent on a walking aid such as a rollator, crutch or cane can of course use these in the showrooms. It is important to ensure that the walking aids are rubberized to avoid damaging the historic floors. It is not permitted to take long and sharp objects such as sticks and umbrellas, as well as baby carriages and buggies into the exhibition rooms.

For further questions and information, please contact the Schlaining Castle information office by telephone on +43 3355 2306 and online here is at your disposal.

What leisure activities are there in and around the castle?

Southern Burgenland is not only known for its picturesque landscape and culinary delights, but also for its rich cultural scene and varied leisure activities. Here you can find out more. 

What is the peace castle and what is it known for?

The peace castle is a historical landmark in southern Burgenland - originally built as a medieval fortified castle (first documented mention in 1271). You can find more information here.

What exhibitions and museums can I visit at peace castle ?

There are permanent and temporary exhibitions on the history of the castle, on Burgenland since 1921, on peace research ("Schlaining & Peace"), on topics such as political and cultural identity as well as an exhibition in the former synagogue.

  • Castle stories - Experience the architecture, weaponry and everyday life in the Middle Ages.
  • Burgenland since 1921 - A fascinating journey through the political and cultural development of Austria's youngest province.
  • Schlaining and Peace - A unique look at the role of the castle in international peace research.

Further information on the current exhibitions can be found on the website of the peace castle.

Are there guided tours of the peace castle?

Yes, guided tours are possible. Please register in advance. You can find further information here.

How can I book the peace castle for my celebration?

The team at Burghotel Schlaining will be happy to help you plan and organize your event. You can find more information about our event rooms and the planning of private and business celebrations on our homepage. 

What are the opening hours of the peace castle?

The peace castle is open for you from Tuesday to Sunday and on public holidays from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.
Special closing times can be found on the Homepage of the Peace Castle.

What is the best way to get to the peace castle (car, train, bus)?

You can reach the peace castle in the same way as the Burghotel Schlaining.
Details for your arrival can be found in the FAQ section here.
 

What are the entrance fees for the peace castle?

As a guest of the Burghotel and Burgenland Card holder, admission to Schlaining Castle is free of charge.
The regular admission price per adult is € 20. Details on discounts can be found here.

Exterior view of Burghotel Schlaining (c) Roswitha Riedl.

Book your stay now & discover the castle!

Combine history, pleasure & relaxation during a stay at the Burghotel Schlaining and discover the fascinating peace castle directly opposite.

Request your stay now!
Book your stay online now!

We look forward to welcoming you to the Burghotel Schlaining and the peace castle !

Burgenland
Burgenland