Schwanau Castle, Lauerz, Switzerland

Schwanau island in Lake Lauerz is occupied by a ruined castle, a chapel and a restaurant. Traces of occupation on the island date back to around 1200 BC. There is little documentary evidence relating to the castle, but it is believed to have been built at the end of the 12th century and to have been ruined, probably as a result of a fire, as early as the middle of the 13th century.

The island in known to have been occupied by hermits at various times, including the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1684 a chapel was built on the island, but this was destroyed by the tsunami that followed the 1806 Goldau landslide. In 1808 the council of the church in Schwyz sold the island to General Ludwig Auf der Maur on the provision that he rebuild the chapel. The island remained in the possession of the general's descendants until 1967, when it was purchased by the canton of Schwyz. In 2009 it was completely renovated.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

David Nonsme (10 months ago)
Historical and beautiful place. With the ferry, 2.-, get over quickly. Short way to the tower With a view of Lake Lauerz and the mountains. Dogs are not allowed off the leash and there are no Robidogs. Information boards provide information about interesting historical events.

Rothacher Beat (12 months ago)
A visit to the island of Schwanau was truly an idyllic experience. The electric boat that took us to the island gave the trip a special touch. The charming chapel, the restored restaurant and the impressive 13th century castle ruins created a picturesque backdrop. The restaurant, which offers a mix of history and modernity, impressed not only with its beautiful outdoor area, but also with the cozy dining rooms inside. The excellent service and delicious, reasonably priced food contributed to an overall successful visit. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a break in a historical atmosphere with good food and warm support

Luca Ecari (15 months ago)
Very quaint and romantic experience. The fact that the restaurant is situated in an ancient structure on a very tiny island that you can only reach by boat is a truly unique experience. Alas so was not the food. Quality of the ingredients aside (all good) the courses were more of a typically German orientation of what might be considered ‘sophisticated’ food, sadly not going beyond cranberry sauced vinegar as salad dressing. I expected more. The lake fish that was served was very good, again with not too much fantasy when it comes to the obvious boiled potatoes and veggies on the side. I liked them very much, but they are not haute cuisine, which this place obviously wants to let on. A nice experience on a very unique place with very courteous service. But I won’t be going back for the food.

Jeanie Bächli (4 years ago)
Great location. Boat crossing more expensive than described on the Internet. Food in the expensive area with a small selection. Unfortunately, Aperol Spritz was only colored - too expensive in comparison and unfortunately such an excursion is no longer an option for me. What a shame, I could certainly make more of it.

Cecilia Martinelli (4 years ago)
Unique both gastronomic and receptive level. Lovely island and extremely friendly staff.

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright Following Hadrian

Historic Site of the week

Walls of Constantinople

The Walls of Constantinople are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great. With numerous additions and modifications during their history, they were the last great fortification system of antiquity, and one of the most complex and elaborate systems ever built. They were also the largest and strongest fortification in both the ancient and medieval world.

Initially built by Constantine the Great, the walls surrounded the new city on all sides, protecting it against attack from both sea and land. As the city grew, the famous double line of the Theodosian Walls was built in the 5th century. Although the other sections of the walls were less elaborate, they were, when well-manned, almost impregnable for any medieval besieger.

Schwanau Castle

Address

Details

More Information

Rating

Interesting Sites Nearby

User Reviews

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Finest Norman castles in Italy

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Historic Site of the week

Walls of Constantinople