Top of the World
Most famous castles boast impressive security features—think moats, drawbridges, lakeside locations. But here’s a medieval castle that took defence to a whole new level. Hochosterwitz Castle has the rare distinction that it was never invaded. The secret to its security success? In 1570, the steep pathway winding upwards to the castle’s entrance was fitted with 14 treacherous gates. Each elaborate gate presented a unique—and dangerous—obstacle to its intruders: drawbridges, concealed spikes, hidden archers, fire torch slots, even chutes that would spew boiling hot oil. Legend states that invaders only got as far as gate four, and the massive castle was never compromised.
