Wildkirchli Caves
Appenzell Innerrhoden
The Wildkirchli Caves, located in the Alpstein massif of Appenzell Innerrhoden, Switzerland, comprise three interconnected karst caves: the Altarhöhle, Untere Höhle, and Obere Höhle. Situated at elevations between 1,477 and 1,500 meters, these caves are renowned for their archaeological significance, revealing evidence of Paleolithic Neanderthal habitation dating back approximately 40,000 years. Cave bear bones found here date from about 90,000 to 40,000 years ago, underscoring the site's importance as a prehistoric habitat. Historically, the caves hosted a hermitage and a chapel dedicated to St. Michael, founded in the 17th century by priest Paulus Ulmann, transforming the site into a pilgrimage destination. The hermits provided shelter and hospitality to visitors until the mid-19th century, after which the hermitage was replaced by the Berggasthaus Aescher, a historic guesthouse famously built into the cliff face nearby. Today, visitors can explore the caves, view a museum exhibiting a full cave bear skeleton, and enjoy the breathtaking alpine environment accessible via cable car and a short hike. The site blends natural wonder, deep history, and cultural heritage, making it a unique attraction in the Swiss Alps.
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Tip: Visit during late spring to early autumn for the best weather and hiking conditions. Purchase cable car tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid queues. The site offers group tours suitable for families, and some discounts may be available for groups or regional visitors. Wear sturdy footwear for the mountain hike and bring weather-appropriate clothing as conditions can change rapidly. Check opening times ahead, as certain facilities may operate seasonally or by appointment.
Interesting facts
- •The caves contain Mousterian flint tools, the first evidence of Neanderthal habitation in the Appenzell Alps.
- •A full cave bear skeleton found in the caves is displayed in a museum on-site.
- •The Berggasthaus Aescher guesthouse, adjacent to the caves, is built into a cliff and is one of Switzerland's oldest mountain inns.
- •The caves are mentioned in the 19th-century novel 'Ekkehard' by Joseph Victor von Scheffel, enhancing their cultural significance.
- •The site includes a chapel dedicated to St. Michael, founded in the 17th century and still used for services today.
History
The Wildkirchli Caves were first documented in 1863 by a local cave explorers' club.
In 1658, priest Paulus Ulmann established a chapel and hermitage within the caves, fostering a religious pilgrimage site.
Over nearly two centuries, a succession of hermits lived there, maintaining the chapel and hosting pilgrims until the last hermit died in 1851.
Archaeological excavations in the early 20th century revealed Mousterian flint tools and cave bear bones, confirming Neanderthal presence around 40,000 years ago.
The hermitage was replaced by the Berggasthaus Aescher inn in 1860, which remains a celebrated mountain guesthouse today.
Place Guide
Altarhöhle (Altar Cave)17th century
One of the three interconnected caves, historically converted into a chapel by hermits in the 17th century. It retains religious significance and is still used for occasional services.
Untere Höhle (Lower Cave)
This cave served as a summer dwelling for hermits and contains archaeological remains such as flint tools and animal bones indicating prehistoric hunting activity.
Obere Höhle (Upper Cave)Mid-19th century (hermitage abandoned 1851, guesthouse built 1860)
The upper cave housed hermits until the mid-19th century before being replaced by the nearby Berggasthaus Aescher guesthouse, which is integrated into the cliff face and renowned for its atmosphere.
Contact
Phone: 071 788 96 41
