Liechtenstein Wilfersdorf Castle

Wilfersdorf Castle – The Ancestral Seat of the Liechtenstein Dynasty

Wilfersdorf Castle is the ancestral home of the ruling line of the House of Liechtenstein. A key figure is Prince Gundaker, who lived here with his family and died in 1658. He founded the family branch that now resides in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Notably, the national coat of arms of Liechtenstein is derived from Prince Gundaker’s personal heraldry.

His son, Prince Hartmann (1613–1686), and wife Elisabeth Sidonia (1623–1688)—parents of 24 children, most born at Wilfersdorf—ensured the family’s continuity through their descendants.
History of the Castle

Originally a Gothic fortress in the Middle Ages, the site passed to the Liechtensteins in 1436.

Transformed into a four-winged moated castle with bastions, a ditch, and outbuildings.

Rebuilt in 1713–1721 under Prince Anton Florian by architect Johann Anton Ospel.

Partially demolished in 1802 due to structural decay, then looted and damaged during the 1809 French invasion.

Served as the Liechtenstein family’s residence from 1604 to 1686.

Modern Era

Fully restored in 2001/2002 with a focus on “Culture and Wine.”

Houses a permanent exhibition on the Liechtenstein family’s history and ties to the Weinviertel region (Lower Austria).

Hosts a local heritage museum (since 1985) and the administrative offices for the Liechtenstein Foundation’s Lower Austrian estates.