Germany Guide
The Alps and eastern Bavaria
The Veste Oberhaus
Opening time: mid-March to mid-Nov Mon– Fri 9am–5pm, Sat & Sun 10am–6pm
Price: €5
Dominating Passau from its hilltop site high above the north bank of the Danube, the Veste Oberhaus is one of the largest surviving medieval fortress complexes in Europe, begun shortly after Passau was raised to the status of a prince-bishopric in 1217 but considerably extended and modernized in the second half of the sixteenth century. It now houses the city's local history museum, divided into themed sections: Faszination Mittelalter (Fascinating Middle Ages) delves into the medieval life of the castle; Geheimnis der Bruderschaft deals with the craftsmen's guilds; and the exhibition Passau: Mythos und Geschichte (Passau: Myth and History) explores the history of the city and surrounding region. The castle is also the venue for temporary art exhibitions. From the Veste Oberhaus's Batterie Linde there are stunning views over the Altstadt. To reach the Veste Oberhaus, ascend the steps opposite the north end of the Luitpoldbrücke or take the shuttle bus from Rathausplatz, which departs every thirty minutes.