Altstätten Old Town
Sankt Gallen
Altstätten Old Town is the historic heart of Altstätten, a small rural town located in the Rhine Valley of the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland. The town is characterized by its medieval origins, with roots dating back to its first mention in 853 as Altsteti. It was fortified in the Middle Ages by the Abbey of St. Gallen, which turned it into a walled town to protect its holdings. The old town area is notable for remnants of its ring wall and the medieval street layout. Altstätten has a rich cultural life, including a famous Shrove-Tuesday carnival tradition that draws visitors from across Switzerland. Situated at the foot of the Alpstein mountains, the old town offers picturesque views and access to the scenic natural surroundings. The blend of agricultural heritage and historic architecture creates a unique atmosphere, making it a compelling destination for those interested in Swiss history and culture.
ヒント: The best time to visit Altstätten Old Town is during the Shrove-Tuesday carnival season in January and February, when the town hosts lively performances and an international parade attracting thousands of spectators. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets or reserving accommodations in advance during this period due to high demand. The town is accessible via public transport, including buses operated by RTB. Exploring the old town on foot is recommended to fully appreciate its medieval character and local shops. Discounts may be available for group tours or cultural events.
興味深い事実
- •Altstätten hosts one of Switzerland's most renowned Shrove-Tuesday carnivals, attracting over 30,000 spectators annually.
- •The town was fortified with a ring wall in the Middle Ages by the Abbey of St. Gallen to secure its territory.
- •Medieval Minnesänger Chuonrat von Altstetten, whose works appear in the famous Manesse Codex, lived in a castle above the town around 1320.
- •Altstätten was burned down in 1410 during a revenge campaign by Duke Friedrich following the Appenzeller Wars.
- •The highest point in the municipality is the Hoher Kasten mountain, a well-known viewpoint in eastern Switzerland.
歴史
Altstätten was first documented in 853 as Altsteti, indicating its early medieval origins.
During the Middle Ages, the Abbey of St.
Gallen fortified the settlement with a ring wall, elevating it to town status by 1298.
The town was involved in regional conflicts such as the Appenzeller Wars in the early 15th century, which led to its burning by Duke Friedrich in 1410.
Over the centuries, Altstätten suffered several major fires, including one in 1567 that destroyed many buildings.
Despite these setbacks, the town preserved its historical core and continued to develop as a regional center in the Rhine Valley.
場所ガイド
Medieval Ring Wall13th century
Remnants of the original ring wall built in the Middle Ages by the Abbey of St. Gallen to fortify the town and protect its lands.
Old Town StreetsMedieval period
The historic street layout preserves the medieval character of Altstätten, with narrow alleys and traditional buildings reflecting its past.
Shrove-Tuesday CarnivalSince 1919 (Röllelibutzen club)
An annual cultural event featuring performances by local clubs and music societies, culminating in an international parade that draws large crowds.