Kufstein Fortress

The fortress of Kufstein is one of the most impressive Medioeval constructions in Tyrol and is located on a hill rising above the city of Kufstein. This fortress has already been built very early in order to control the entrance from the Alpine foothills into the Inntal valley. However, it has been mentioned for the first time in 1205 AD, when it was in possession of the bishops of Regensburg.

In the course of time the fortress has been expanded and since 1924 it has been in possession of the city of Kufstein. Nowadays the fortress is one of the most popular destinations in the entire alpine area and offers a varied programme for those who are interested in culture and history. A special attraction on Kufstein Fortress is the largest open-air organ in the world, the Heroe's Organ (Heldenorgel). It features 4,307 pipes as well as 4 registers. The sound of the organ reminds on the soldiers killed in World War I and II and can be heard in the entire city. Moreover visitors can take a look into the Local Museum and the former cell wing in the Emperor Tower. You can also visit the Museum in the Citizens' Tower with its collection of exhibits of the Schützen and the Tyrolean Imperial Infantry, and see a herb garden as well as special exhibitions.

The fortress of Kufstein with its open-air area Josefsburg, also called Arena, provides state-of-the-art technique that enables performances to be staged also in case of bad weather conditions, as in this case a huge umbrella opens. Also weddings, presentations and seminars are held in this place. You can reach the fortress either via the "Kaiser Maximilian" funicular or on foot via covered stair access. By the way: dogs are admitted in the fortress, in the inn of the fortress they also get fresh water. In the museum, however, your four legged-friend is not admitted!