Those who want to combine cultural history with time outdoors can explore a range of themes on a trip to Pfaffstätt: the castle ruins on Siedelberg, local church history, the Mattig and activities in the countryside.

Castle Ruins and Castle

The Pfaffstätt castle ruins on Siedelberg are among Austria’s largest known early medieval fortifications. A Celtic settlement once stood on the site of the present-day castle ruins; its three artificially constructed ramparts to the west are still clearly visible. This means two historical interpretations sit side by side: the Celtic settlement and the early medieval fortification. For those interested in archaeology, the combination of this special significance and the visible ramparts makes the castle ruins particularly interesting.

Another listed historic site is Pfaffstätt Castle at Schlossweg 1. As of 23 June 2026, the heritage register lists both the castle and the Siedelberg castle ruins as protected historic monuments. This makes it possible to explore two different protected monuments as part of the local history.

Church History and the Place Name

In 1343, the subsidiary church in Pfaffstätt, dedicated to Saint Vitus, was transferred to Mattsee Abbey’s patronage. The date and dedication provide a specific point of reference for the church’s history, while the patronage also points to an institutional connection with Mattsee. A small baptistery was also built on the Mattig. Another trace of the town’s history is the name “Paphstetti,” first mentioned in a document from the Diocese of Passau. Taken together, these references span everything from a documented form of the name and church history to the fortifications.

The Mattig and Outdoor Activities

Near Pfaffstätt, the Mattig flows in its natural riverbed. The landscape includes green meadows, shady woods and fertile fields, making it suitable for hiking, cycling and horse riding in nature. This offers several ways to experience the outdoors: on foot, by bike or on horseback. Those who want to combine culture and exercise can make the historic monuments one focus of their trip and outdoor activities another.

Distinguishing Between Hiking and Cycling Routes

The different connections to the town are useful when planning a hike: the Marien-Wanderweg (Mary’s Hiking Trail) passes through Trattmannsbergerweg to Pfaffstätt, while the MWW Kirchbergrunde alternative route starts in Pfaffstätt. So the town is the destination for one route and the starting point for the other. Before setting off, check which route description matches your planned itinerary.

For cyclists, the cycle path leads towards Pfaffstätt. There, leave the path, turn into the town and take the road on the right marked “Munderfing.” As route conditions can change, it is worth checking the latest route description before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Sankt Pantaleon, Wimpassing, Gilgenberg Am Weilhart, Sankt Johann am Walde, Aufhausen, Braunau Am Inn, Sankt Peter am Hart, Feldkirchen Bei Mattighofen

Return to the regional travel overview: Braunau Am Inn.