Schloss Esterházy was constructed in the late 13th century, and came under ownership of the Hungarian Esterházy family in 1622. Under Paul I,1st Prince Esterházy of Galántha the estate was converted into a baroque castle which remained the principal residence and center of administration of the family for over 300 years.The palace currently offers a wine museum and concerts in the famous Haydnsaal as well as the large garden of the castle.
The Haydnsaal,originally the large multi-purpose festival and banquet room, is a piece of artwork in itself in the Schloss Esterházy. With its size and ornate splendor,it reflects the political,economic and cultural dominance of the Esterházy family.Today it ranks among the most beautiful and acoustically perfect concert halls of the world.Its name goes back to the famous composer Joseph Haydn,who worked for nearly forty years in the service of the Esterházy family.Many of his works composed and premiered in Eisenstadt and the Schloss Esterházy.
