Renaissance - A time of upheaval

The Renaissance was one of the most important periods in the history of art and culture in the 15th and 16th centuries and marked the transition from the Middle Ages to modern times. However, it was not only an art-historical epoch, it also described a social revolution that put the focus back on people. The revival and rediscovery characterize the naming of this period. In just a few decades, countless buildings and works of art were created that are still among the most important works of mankind today. This formative era can still be discovered today in numerous buildings and exhibitions along the Danube.

The Renaissance Schallaburg Castle in the Wachau in Lower Austria is a popular excursion destination and, along with Melk Abbey, is one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles in the northern Alps.

From April 13 to November 3, 2024, Schallaburg presents the exhibition "Renaissance once, now & here" and shows that the Renaissance is more than just an "art historical drawer". This period was characterized by new beginnings, networking and communication. Revolutionary ideas and groundbreaking discoveries emerged.

The idea of man at the center, the notion of an ideal education, the interest in exploring and mastering nature and the use of mass media: these themes originated in the Renaissance & continue to shape the world today.

The medieval Orth Castle, once the center of Habsburg power, sits enthroned in the heart of the Donau-Auen National Park. Today, visitors experience a unity of nature and culture in the National Park Center, the Castle Island, the National Park Lounge and the museumORTH.

Orth Castle was once a majestic medieval moated castle and was rebuilt as a Renaissance castle after its destruction during the First Turkish Siege. Rarely in Austria do you get as close to the Renaissance as here.

Every two years, the wheel of time is turned back in Neuburg on the Danube. At the Neuburg Castle Festival, the second largest Renaissance spectacle in southern Germany on the last weekend in June and the first weekend in July, the former princely glory of the old royal seat is brought back to life. The historic old town forms the unique backdrop for this fascinating spectacle. The whole city follows in the footsteps of Count Palatine Ottheinrich and celebrates a lavish festival. The historic old town around Karlsplatz, the Hofkirche and the palace provide an atmospheric backdrop for the colorful hustle and bustle of the historic fair, the equestrian games and tournaments, as well as courtly concerts. The next castle festival will take place on 06.07.2025.

Right in the heart of Budapest is one of the most unusual magnificent buildings in Europe. Vajdahunyad Palace is located in one of Budapest's largest public parks, the City Forest, and is now home to the Hungarian Agricultural Museum. The castle was built on an island and can be reached via one of four bridges. The building complex is a particularly interesting attraction as it combines elements of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles.