A glass cupola gleaming under the Salzburg sun. That’s the FreyschlÖssl-Roter Turm today. But its story stretches back centuries.
This isn’t just any building. The FreyschlÖssl-Roter Turm stands proudly on the MÖnchsberg. Once known as the Red Tower it’s a testament to Salzburg’s rich history. Originally built in the late 13th century it served as a crucial defense tower. It guarded the gap between the MÖnchsberg and Festungsberg mountains. It protected the city gate that once stood nearby.
For centuries the Red Tower belonged to St Peter’s Abbey. Legal battles in 1372 confirmed its ownership. The tower’s square base and pyramidal roof are described in historical documents. It likely connected to another tower via a defensive wall. This formed a small fortified enclosure. The construction of the Lodron city walls lessened its military importance. The FreyschlÖssl-Roter Turm remained part of St Peter’s Abbey until 1821. It was used as a dairy farm. It was leased out. The income was low. In 1821 the Abbey sold it to Theresia Reiter.
Ownership changed hands frequently after that. Then came a significant shift in 1862. Carl von Frey purchased the tower. He commissioned a major renovation in the neo-Gothic style. The renovation was completed by builder J GÖtz. The tower was transformed into a charming little castle. Carl von Frey filled it with his historical collection. Members of the FlÖgelwarte a choral and classical music society celebrated its reopening.
After Carl von Frey’s death in 1896 his son Maximilian inherited it. Maximilian von Frey a physician continued adding to the castle. Even into the 2000s a descendant lived there with her cats. By then however the FreyschlÖssl-Roter Turm was in serious disrepair.
Matthias Kaindl a wood industry owner saved it in 2009. He oversaw extensive renovations. This included the glass cupola you see today. He added a modern concrete extension. The garden was also re-landscaped. A new wooden gatehouse was constructed. The FreyschlÖssl-Roter Turm remains a private property today. It’s a blend of history and modern additions. It is a captivating sight. A silent witness to centuries of Salzburg’s story.