Schlössli Wörth
Schaffhausen
Wörth Castle, locally known as Schlössli Wörth, is a remarkable water castle situated on a small island in the basin of the Rhine Falls in Neuhausen am Rheinfall, Switzerland. Originally constructed in the mid-14th century on the site of an earlier 11th-century fortification, the castle served as a key customs and transshipment point on the vital east-west trade route obstructed by the powerful waterfall. Owned by various noble families and the Benedictine monastery of Allerheiligen, it played a strategic role in regional commerce and governance. Architecturally, the castle features a distinctive irregular hexagonal tower rising three stories, with modifications over centuries including the replacement of timber clerestory floors with stone in the early 17th century. Today, Wörth Castle houses a gourmet restaurant, a gift shop, and serves as the starting point for boat tours on the Rhine Falls, combining historic ambiance with modern tourism. Its location offers visitors breathtaking views of Europe's largest waterfall and a tangible connection to medieval Swiss heritage.
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Tip: Visit Wörth Castle during spring and summer for the best weather and vibrant natural surroundings. Booking a table in advance at the castle's restaurant is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. The castle serves as the departure point for scenic boat tours around the Rhine Falls, which can be reserved ahead to avoid queues. Visitors may benefit from regional tourism discounts and combined tickets for multiple Rhine Falls attractions. Wear comfortable footwear for walking on the island and terraces.
Interesting facts
- •Wörth Castle is located on a small island in the plunge pool of the Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall.
- •The castle was first built in the mid-14th century on the site of an 11th-century fortification.
- •Johann Wolfgang von Goethe mentioned Wörth Castle in his diary in 1797, describing his visit and the custodian's work.
- •The castle served as a customs house and transshipment point to bypass the Rhine Falls on the historic trade route between Lake Constance and Basel.
- •Wörth Castle is listed as a Class B object of regional importance in the Swiss inventory of cultural property.
History
Wörth Castle was first mentioned in the 13th century and constructed in its current form in 1348 on the site of an earlier 11th-century fortification known as Burg im Fischerhölzli.
It functioned primarily as a customs house and transshipment point for goods circumventing the Rhine Falls.
Ownership passed from the Lords of Jestetten to the Schultheiss of Randenburg, then to the Herren von Fulach, and later to the Benedictine monastery of Allerheiligen in Schaffhausen.
After the monastery's abolition in 1524, the castle became a municipal administrative department.
With the advent of railways in the 19th century, the waterway's commercial importance declined, leading to the castle's conversion into a restaurant in 1835-36.
Since then, it has served as a cultural and tourist landmark in the region.
Place Guide
The Hexagonal Tower14th century
The main structure of the castle is an irregular hexagonal tower that dates back to its original medieval construction. It stands three stories tall on a rock island surrounded by the Rhine's waters.
Castle Courtyard and Ring WallMedieval period
Originally, a bridge connected the castle to the right bank of the Rhine, leading into a ring-walled courtyard. Over time, the ring wall and gate were modified, with new floors and windows added.
Restaurant and Terrace1960s
Today, the castle houses a gourmet restaurant and a gift shop, with a terrace offering panoramic views of the Rhine Falls. The terrace was added in the 1960s, enhancing visitor experience.
Boat Tour Departure Point
Wörth Castle serves as the starting location for boat tours around the Rhine Falls, allowing visitors to experience the waterfall from the water up close.
Contact
Phone: 052 544 14 00
