Katastralgemeinde Himberg

Have you ever heard of the “Hintperg”? This is the ancient name for Himberg. The history of Himberg stretches back further than most people realize. The land where you are standing today, Katastralgemeinde Himberg, was once settled by both Germanic and Roman tribes. It was a strategically important place, situated near Roman fortresses like Vindobona, Alanova, and Carnuntum. It is said that the name Himberg comes from a follower of the Babenberg dynasty, Marquardus de Hintperg, who was granted the area by Leopold III, around 1120. This is probably where the “Hintperg” gets its name from. He built a strong house, protecting the area from attacks, and became an administrator, serving the Babenberger rulers. The family of Himberg also had a family crest and coat of arms featuring a hind, known in medieval German and Bavarian as a “Hinte.” This is reflected in the modern emblem of the town.
In 1243, Conrad I von Himberg traded his entire domain, including the Himberg castle, with the powerful Duke Friedrich II. Over the years, the spelling changed from Hintperg to Himperch and finally to Himberg.
The old church of the castle is said to have been built around 1130, and a chapel was added on the south side and later expanded in the area. The powerful duke, Friedrich II, enjoyed the abundance of wildlife in Himberg and wanted to merge his properties. The descendant of Conrad later changed their name to Ebersdorf.
Over the centuries, Himberg has seen its share of challenges. The Turkish invasions of 1529 and 1683 destroyed not only the castle but also severely impacted the town. But, the people of Himberg were resilient and rebuilt their lives and their town. Today, you can still see remnants of the old castle walls, a testament to its history and resilience.