Behind the arcaded gallery on the upper right are the Knights’ Hall and the White Hall, the two most splendid rooms in Riegersburg castle. The stairs at the far end of the courtyard lead to the residential and state rooms on the first floor, the former private quarters of the lordship. The staircase is crowned by the coat of arms of the Wechsler family, the family of the Gallerin’s birth.

The female figure with two fish tails, which can be seen above the window on the right-hand side of the courtyard, represents a Melusine. This is a tragic mythical figure whose significance and appearance changed greatly from the Middle Ages – when she was usually depicted with a serpent’s tail – through to the early modern period. The Melusine in the courtyard was added in the 17th century. At that time, she symbolised a loyal and caring wife, mother, and ruler, as well as being synonymous with a supernatural being.

Melusines are also frequently found on the water-facing exterior walls of trading towns.