An unmissable symbol, Kufstein Fortress dominates the Tyrolean district capital of Kufstein and bears witness to the turbulent past of Kufstein as a border town: In the possession of the Bishops of Regensburg, the fortress was first documented in 1205, later it was shared with the Bavarian dukes. Emperor Maximilian I. conquered Kufstein in 1504. He had the castle rebuilt and expanded into a fortress. The Bavarians reconquered the fortress in 1703 and 1805, but from 1814 it was again in Austrian hands. Since 1924, it has been owned by the town of Kufstein.
Kufstein Fortress is one of the most imposing mediaeval buildings in the Tyrol, and remains a cultural meeting place to this day. Theatre shows, concerts and operetta performances bring life and vitality to its venerable walls.

Panorama cable car and Heroes Organ
The former fortress lift was previously used to transport provender and guns; today the modern panorama cable car carries visitors in comfort up the mountain. Arrive in good time, and the Heroes Organ can be heard to ring out from the Citizen Tower. It is the first free-standing organ in the world, and equipped with 46 registers and 4.948 pipes. It generates its sound through two lead-covered cables, each with 220 cores. The Heroes Organ plays all year round daily at 12:00 noon after the midday chimes, and also at 6:00 pm in the months of July and August. It urges peace in the world in remembrance of all victims of warring disputes.