Kriminalmuseum Schloss Scharnstein

Schloss Scharnstein houses not only the Kriminalmuseum but also the Museum of Austrian Contemporary History.

The Kriminalmuseum documents the history of the Austrian judicial and security system from the late Middle Ages to our time in more than 20 showrooms of Scharnstein Castle. In the vaults of the castle, where the district court was located from 1584 to 1848, numerous exhibits depict the trial of the past, as well as torture and the execution of sentences. The original torture chamber provides insight into the practice of historical justice. Wide room is dedicated to the history of the gendarmerie from 1849 to the present. Uniforms, weapons, equipment, etc. as well as presentations of assistance, spectacular criminal cases and hostage exemptions give a vivid picture of this institution and its tasks. Also the police development, the justice and prison system up to our time, forensic medicine, death penalty and famous criminal cases complete the topic and the extensive show range.

Museum of Austrian Contemporary History

The History Museum is currently being reorganized. Regardless of the museum visits, guided tours of the castle are also offered.