Museum of Upper Austrian Folklore

The Mühlviertel Castle Museum, often associated with the region's folklore and history, is housed in Freistadt Castle, a 14th-century structure located in the northern part of the town. The museum holds an impressive collection of 17,000 exhibits, primarily displayed in the castle’s keep and south wing. It serves as a comprehensive repository of Upper Austrian cultural heritage, with a strong focus on local traditions and daily life.

Visitors can explore extensive exhibits on folklore, including barber’s and pharmacist’s tools, items related to birth, wedding, and death customs, and traditional peasant and middle-class almanacs. The collection also features wrought-iron crosses, faith and myth displays, ancient clocks, school and leisure items, medieval judiciary records, textiles, traditional costumes, and farmhouse furniture. Additionally, the museum showcases the region's trade history with tools and works from skilled trades such as metalworkers, potters, and goldsmiths, along with a guild house displaying historical flags.

A unique highlight is the display of Verre Églomisé pictures, or glass paintings, dating from 1780 to 1930, originating from Sandl, Buchers, and other local sites. The museum offers guided tours, special exhibitions, and educational activities. From the castle, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the old town. Located at Schlosshof 2, the museum provides a deep dive into the region's history and cultural identity. For specific opening hours and admission fees, it is recommended to check the official museum website or local tourism resources.