Titled as one of the most beautiful castles by CNN in 2019, Vianden Castle is a beauty to visit if you are touring through Luxembourg. Vianden Castle offers a picturesque view of northern Luxemburg. From the exterior to the renovated interior of the castle, there is a lot to visit and marvel at about Vianden, including the castle’s chapel followed by its fascinating history associated with the Knight Templars.
In the following sections, you will get to journey along with us about Vianden Castle’s fascinating history along with some interesting facts about the castle. If you wish to visit Vianden, we have you covered. From the best visiting hours to the ticketing pricing, you will find the answer to all your questions concerning Vianden Castle.
Table of Contents
Vianden Castle is perfectly restored in its original image, with the inner furniture mirroring the period and the lifestyle of its residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Vianden Castle Located?
Vianden Castle is located in Mnt Du Chateau, 9408 Vianden in Luxembourg.
When was Vianden Castle Built? Who Build It?
The exact date that Vianden Castle was built is unknown. However, archeologists believe that it was built between the 11th to 14th century by the Grand Ducal family of the Hohenstaufen dynasty.
When is The Best Time to Visit the Castle?
If you are a nature enthusiast, the best time to visit Vianden Castle is September to October, when you will get to enjoy Vianden’s beauty and enjoy the winter aesthetics of the place.
What Other Monuments are Located Nearby?
While you are out to visit Vianden Castle, there are numerous other historical monuments nearby to visit, including Musée de la caricature et du cartoon Vianden & Musée Littéraire ‘Victor Hugo’ within walking distance, and, Beaufort Castle 17.7 km (11 miles) away.
FOR HISTORY | BEAUTIFUL IMAGES | INTERESTING FACTS | TRAVEL TIPS
Early History
First fortification of Vianden Castle (11th century)
Vianden Castle is assumed to have been constructed on the foundation of a Roman ‘castellum’ between the 11th to 14th centuries. Historians also believed the castle’s site was used as a Carolingian refuge during the 9th century. The castle is considered one of the largest and most beautiful feudal residences for its gothic and Romanesque aesthetics.
Till the 15th century, the castle remained a residence for the influential counts of Vianden. Vianden Castle reached its zenith in terms of its beauty and influence during Henry I of Vianden’s ownership,he was also known as ‘the Sun Count’. The castle became famous for Henry I of Vianden’s lifestyle and influence in French and German courts.
Vianden Castle and French Revolution
In 1417, the castle passed into the ownership of the House of Orange-Nassau, which had been inherited from the Dutch Royal family. The castle remained in Orange-Nassau possession till the onset of the French revolution. The French confiscated the castle but later returned it to the Dutch Royal family, specifically Dutch King William I, in 1820.
Privatization of the Castle in Nineteenth Century
King William I sold the castle to a businessman named Wenceslas Coster, who later sold the entire inventory of the castle, including the floorboards, doors, and windows. The castle was abandoned and fell into ruins in the coming decades.
Restoration of the Castle in Twentieth Century
Considering the historical significance of the castle and its ruined state, the castle was bought by the Grand Duke of Luxembourg in 1827. He later transferred the castle’s ownership back to the state, followed by the initiation of restoration work on the castle. However, the death of the Duke of Luxembourg halted the restoration process. Even in its ruined state, the castle served as a strong defense during Luxembourg’s resistance during Nazi occupation. It was not until 1962 that serious consideration was given to the restoration of the castle.
Revisit More Historic Places Below or Read Further
Current Times
At present, the castle stands as a mirror of its past glory in a perfectly restored state. The restoration work on the castle was completed in 1990, including rebuilding a significant portion of the castle to restore its original image. The castle’s chapel was also given a new roof; while the white tower with its conical roof was restored in the Gothic image of the original castle.
The castle was open for the public to visit soon after the restoration was completed in 1990. Today, the castle is known for its beauty and splendor across Europe and gathers thousands of visitors each year. Luxembourg’s summer is especially bustling with visitors fascinated by Vianden’s Gothic beauty and splendor.
Interesting Vianden Castle Facts
- Vianden Castle is perfectly restored in its original image, with the inner furniture mirroring the period and the lifestyle of its residents.
- On history pages, Vianden Castle is also known as ‘Oranienburg’ since it was built on a large rock in the valley of the Our River.
- There is a cable car in Vianden, which is a unique way to reach Vianden Castle.
- In the 17th century, before the castle completely fell into ruins, a renaissance home was added to the castle to give it a modern touch of the era.
Visiting Vianden Castle – Tips and Tricks
Famous for being one of the biggest and fascinating feudal castles in the history of Vianden, the castle is a real magnet for tourists visiting Luxembourg. The castle is accessible to visitors around the year. From inside and out, the castle is worth a visit with a number of artifacts and breathtaking views to catch the visitors’ attention.
If you are looking forward to visiting this beauty, you can make your visit comfortable and convenient by following some tips and tricks provided below.
How to get to Vianden Castle?
Vianden’s cable car is the best way to access the castle. It is not only economically convenient, but it also provides a panoramic view of Vianden’s hills. You can buy a one-way ticket for €4.30 ($5 USD) or a two-way ticket for €5.8 ($7 USD).
If you want, you can also hike up to the Vianden Castle and take in the natural beauty of Vianden along the way.
Ticket Prices, Visiting Hours & Travel Tips
Information was checked & updated on October 29, 2023.
The castle opens up for visitors every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, the best time to visit the castle is from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm since you will get ample chances to join guided tours of the castle.
There is a small ticket price to visit the inside of the castle, including the castle’s chapel. Ticket prices vary according to the types of visitors as well as several discounts are also available. The standard ticket price is €10 ($10 USD) for an average citizen. For children under the age of six years and older citizens above 65 years of age, entry is free.
The ticket price for children between 6 to 12 years is €5 ($2 USD). Students and group tourists (15-person max) can purchase a ticket for €2.5 ($3 USD).
The ticket price also includes a guided tour. You can enjoy the history of the castle along with marveling over its glorious architecture.
How Long Will It Take to Tour Around?
Visiting the castle can take up to three hours. Make sure to spare time to enjoy all nooks and corners of this historical wonder.
Up to Date Information
For up to date ticket prices and visiting hours visit the official website: https://castle-vianden.lu/gb/
Some words of advice and tips:
- Dogs are not allowed within the castle’s premises.
- If you enjoy a nice hike, you can climb to the top of the castle to enjoy a lovely city view.
- Make sure you are fully vaccinated to be permitted to the castle.
- There are numerous food courts where you can enjoy a hearty meal while touring the castle.
