The castle contains six distinct courtyards, each historically separated by fortifications to prevent an invader from taking the entire complex at once.
The site was once used as a primary treasury for the Wittelsbach dukes due to its reputation as the safest location in the duchy.
The length of the complex has been officially recognized by the Guinness World Records as the longest castle in the world.
The foundation of the current structure dates back to the 11th century, though most visible walls are from the 13th to 15th centuries.
The castle is built on a narrow rock ridge known as a 'molasse' formation, which rises high above the Salzach River valley.
Burghausen Castle is the world's longest castle complex, measuring exactly 1,051 meters in total length. It is situated on a narrow ridge between the Wöhrsee lake and the Salzach River. The complex consists of a main castle and five separate outer baileys, each protected by its own gatehouse, drawbridge, and moat. Established as the second seat of the Dukes of Bavaria, the site evolved into an impregnable fortress during the 13th to 15th centuries. Today, the complex houses the State Castle Museum in the main castle, the House of Photography, and the Municipal Museum. The structural layout reflects a historical transition from defensive fortification to a residential palace. It serves as a significant example of late-medieval military architecture in the Bavarian-Austrian border region. The castle grounds remain largely accessible to the public as a pedestrian area.
The view from the Wöhrsee lakeshore looking up at the full length of the castle wall.
Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear as the path stretches over a kilometer across uneven cobblestones and inclines.
Visit the Wöhrsee lake path below the castle for a complete view of the entire longitudinal length of the walls.
Check the schedule for the 'Burg-Hexe' (Castle Witch) tours if you are visiting with children.
Attempting to walk the entire perimeter in high heels or flip-flops due to steep slopes and historic paving.
Museums within the castle typically close on Mondays during the winter season.
Respect residential areas, as parts of the castle complex are still inhabited or used for municipal offices.
