Where do you have the chance to cross paths with a living Count during an included excursion with AmaWaterways? At Austria’s Burg Clam, it’s all possible when you sail our Melodies on the Danube (Wine Cruise) and Magna on the Danube (Wine Cruise) itineraries.
A History of Counts
The Counts of Clam have been living in Burg Clam, or Clam Castle, for over 550 years, although the earliest written record of the estate dates back to 1149. Perched on a hill overlooking the Danube Valley in Austria, the castle was originally a twin-towered fortress, with each tower measuring over 40 meters high. During the 30 Year War the Clam family’s private army defended the property. Parts of Clam were burned down several times; however, the hostile troops never managed to seize the castle. At the end of the war, the structure was in very bad condition. It was under the rule of Johann Gottfried of Clam that the entire building was renovated. He built a church, a hospital, and water pipes for the citizens of the village. During this time, he transformed the fortress into the livable home that still stands today.
Encounters with the Clam Family
During our included tour of Clam Castle, it is not uncommon to catch sight of one of the Count’s children playing around the halls, or to cross paths with Count Carl Philip Clam himself. It may seem odd to feel the presence of a family living inside the massive granite walls and among such an outstanding collection of antiques, art and armory. However, there is undoubtedly something homey about Burg Clam. Gain insight into the daily life of a Count while walking through courtyards, the kitchen, and the Count’s favorite room in the entire castle: the Gothic chapel, which the Count believes is inhabited by ghosts!