The Esterházy Castle

The Esterházy Castle, located in the center of Pápa, has been the biggest attraction of the settlement since its renewal. After the area came into the possession of the Esterházy family in 1626, Ferenc Eszterházy had Franz Anton Pilgram design a residence on the site of the castle. After his death, Jakab Fellner and then József Grossmann continued the work. The baroque castle was completed in 1784.

The history of Esterházy Castle

After World War II, it fell into the hands of the Soviet army, at which time it suffered considerable damage. It later housed a city library, a music school, a cultural center, and a museum. The exterior facade was renovated, then the castle chapel together with the baroque mural, for which it received a Europa Nostra award. The renovation of the main building was completed in 2015.

Guided tour

During guided tours that start every half hour, visitors can learn about the everyday life of a Baroque nobleman. This includes a short film that presents the history and sights of the city. You can see the castle chapel painted by Joseph Ignaz Mildorfer. In the craft workshop, those interested can gain an insight into the tricks of chocolate making. The children’s kingdom is located in the eastern wing, where a copy of the papal Esterházy Castle made of Lego building blocks can be seen. The 1:40 scale castle was assembled from 200,000 Legos on the 4×4 meter field table. The work is so true to life that it even depicts the decorative cornices, the motifs above the entrances to the side wings and the family coat of arms. Enterprising children are welcome with 8 game tables to build their own castle.