Paul I, Prince Esterházy

Paul I, 1st Prince Esterházy of Galántha , (8 September 1635 He actively participated in various battles against the Ottoman Turks during the Fourth Austro-Turkish War (1663–1664) and the Great Turkish War (1683–1699). Paul is credited with establishing the wealth, power, and influence of the Princely House of Esterházy. His father, Nicholas, bore the office of the Palatine of the Kingdom of Hungary. He displayed literary talents at an early age.

On 16 August 1652, Paul's elder brother Ladislaus was killed in the Battle of Vezekény (Vezekey) against the Turks. While serving as a commander-in-chief, Paul defeated malcontents at Leutschau and Győr. The title of Prince was extended to his male descendants in 1712. Paul's loyalty was also demonstrated in his cooperation with the Habsburg court in the subversion of civil and religious liberties. Paul began his renovations of Schloss Esterházy in 1663. The additions made by Paul took nearly ten years to complete and gave the palace the façade it has retained to the present.

Paul further extended, ornamented, and fortified Forchtenstein Castle with architect Domenico Carlone.

Death and legacy

Paul died in Eisenstadt on 26 March 1713.

Honours Knight of the Austrian Order of the Golden Fleece (1681)

Ancestry