Lower Castle Ruins
Schellenberg
Lower Castle Ruins, also known locally as Untere Burg or Burg Alt-Schellenberg, is a medieval castle ruin located in the municipality of Schellenberg, Liechtenstein. Constructed around 1250, it is the smaller and newer of Schellenberg's two ruined castles. The castle reached its architectural peak around 1350 and was inhabited until approximately the 16th century before being abandoned. Over subsequent centuries, it lost its military function and gradually fell into ruin. Today, the ruins lie at the edge of a forest, accessible by foot or mountain bike via a local path, and are freely open to the public. The site features remnants such as an outer bailey dating from around 1400, a medieval baking oven, a tower added circa 1350, and original medieval stairs. The Historical Association of the Principality of Liechtenstein has owned and maintained the site since 1956, ensuring its preservation and research. As one of only five castles in Liechtenstein and among three ruins, it offers a unique cultural and historical insight into the region's medieval heritage.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to explore the ruins during daylight hours for safety and best visibility. The site is freely accessible without entrance fees, so purchasing tickets is not necessary. Visiting in spring or early autumn provides pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Since the ruins are outdoors and partly uneven, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. No advanced reservations are required, but checking the Historical Association's website for any special events or guided tours can enhance the experience.
Faits intéressants
- •Lower Castle is one of only five castles remaining in Liechtenstein and one of three in ruins.
- •The castle's tower was added around the year 1350 during its peak expansion phase.
- •The ruins include a medieval baking oven, illustrating daily life in the castle during the Middle Ages.
- •The site is freely accessible to visitors without any entrance fee.
- •Ownership and preservation of the ruins have been managed by the Historical Association of the Principality of Liechtenstein since 1956.
Histoire
The Lower Castle was completed around 1250 and first documented in 1317.
It underwent significant expansion around 1350, reflecting its strategic and residential importance at the time.
The castle remained inhabited until roughly the 16th century, after which it was abandoned and gradually fell into disuse.
In 1956, ownership was transferred to the Historical Association of the Principality of Liechtenstein, which has since managed its preservation and archaeological research, maintaining the site as a cultural heritage landmark.
Guide du lieu
Outer Baileyca. 1400
Dating from around 1400, the outer bailey includes the outer gate, which served as the main defensive entrance to the castle complex.
Inner Ward
The inner ward contains a medieval baking oven, evidencing the domestic activities of the castle's inhabitants. It also serves as the current access point (Tor 2) to the ruins.
Tower (Turm)ca. 1350
Added around 1350, the tower was a key part of the castle's defensive structure and represents the pinnacle of its architectural development.
Medieval Stairs (Treppe)
Original medieval stairs that provided access between different levels of the castle, showcasing the construction techniques of the period.