Hagenwil Castle
Thurgau
Hagenwil Castle, located in the municipality of Amriswil in the Canton of Thurgau, Switzerland, is a unique and well-preserved water castle, recognized as a Swiss heritage site of national significance. The castle dates back to the early 13th century, first mentioned in 1264 when Rudolf von Hagenwil donated it to the Abbey of St. Gall. It features a 13th-century main tower with thick stone walls and an 18th-century moat surrounding the complex. Over centuries, the castle witnessed significant historical events, including damage during the Appenzell Wars and occupation by Swedish troops during the Thirty Years War. The castle complex includes a ring wall, a palas built in the 15th century, a gatehouse from 1741, and an eastern wing added in the late 18th century serving as a summer residence for the Abbot of St. Gall. Today, Hagenwil Castle operates as a cultural venue with guided tours available by appointment, a restaurant, and spaces for meetings and events, all maintained by the Angehrn family, who have owned it since 1805.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to book tours in advance as they are available by appointment. The castle's restaurant operates most days, offering a unique dining experience within historic surroundings. The best times to visit are during spring and summer when the castle and its surroundings are most accessible and picturesque. Discounts may be available for groups or special events; checking the official website ahead is recommended for event schedules and booking information.
Faits intéressants
- •Hagenwil Castle is the only remaining intact water castle in eastern Switzerland.
- •The castle features a 3.2-meter deep moat filled with water, surrounding the complex as a defensive feature.
- •The main tower's walls are up to 1.7 meters thick, showcasing medieval defensive architecture.
- •During the Thirty Years War, the castle was captured by a Swedish army but suffered only minor damage.
- •The castle has been owned by the Angehrn family since 1805, spanning seven generations.
- •An archaeological exploration was conducted in 1985 to uncover more about the castle's history.
Histoire
Hagenwil Castle was first recorded in 1264 when Rudolf von Hagenwil donated it to the Abbey of St.
Gall.
It passed through various noble families, including the von Breitenlandenbergs and the Bernhausen family, who owned it for nearly 180 years.
The castle suffered probable damage during the Appenzell Wars around 1405 and was captured by Swedish troops in 1633 during the Thirty Years War.
In 1683, it returned to the Abbey of St.
Gall, serving as a summer residence for abbots.
After the dissolution of the Abbey's estates in 1805, the castle was sold to Benedikt Angehrn, whose family still owns it today.
Major restorations occurred in the 20th century, including archaeological work and structural renovations.
Guide du lieu
Main Tower13th century
The 13th-century main tower is the centerpiece of the castle, with unfinished round stone walls up to 1.7 meters thick. It originally had a high entrance on the northern side, later modified to ground-level entrances.
Ring Wall and Gatehouse13th-14th century (wall), 1741 (gatehouse)
The ring wall, dating from the 13th or 14th century, encloses the castle complex. The southern wall and gate are part of the original fortifications. The current gatehouse bears the date 1741, replacing an earlier structure from the late 15th century.
Palas and Residential Buildings15th century
In the 15th century, a palas was built along the north wall, integrating the old tower. A two-story half-timbered residence replaced the northwest corner of the ring wall, reflecting architectural evolution.
Eastern Wing and Chapel1786-1787
Added in 1786/87, the eastern buildings include an entrance hall, a chapel, and a large great hall with comfortable rooms, constructed as a summer residence for the Abbot of St. Gall.
Courtyard and Restaurant1830
A restaurant was added in the courtyard in 1830 by Benedikt Angehrn, the castle's owner since 1805. Today, the restaurant remains a popular feature, offering visitors a chance to dine within the historic atmosphere of the castle.
Contact
Téléphone: 071 411 19 13