Farnsburg Castle Ruins, Ormalingen, Switzerland

Farnsburg castle ruins are the remains from the 14th century. It was built by the Counts of Thierstein between 1319-1342. In the 15th century Farnsburg lost its military purpose. The buildings were left to decay and it was easily conquered in 1653 (the Peasants' War) and finally in 1798 (by the revolting farmers). In 1798 the city Vogt was finally expelled and the castle was set on fire by landowners. The ruin was then used as a quarry.

A good starting point for a hike to the ruins is the Landgasthof Farnsburg - from here it is 20 minutes walk to the ruins. There are also BBQ and picnic facilities in close proximity to the ancient ruins.

User Reviews

Sonja Soom (2 years ago)
Was once a beautiful castle now ruins you can climb the steps small and narrow but when you get to the top you have a great view

Simon Gättelin (2 years ago)
The renovation of the Farbsburg is in the final phase, almost everything is accessible. The renovation of the shield wall has been very successful, you have a wonderful view of the beautiful landscape from the top

Alex Dawson-Stanley (3 years ago)
Wonderful short walk up to the castle. I really like the fact that they still provide access up and around the castle while they are in the process of restoration. At the parking spot at the bottom there is a wonderful tree with a great history. My kids loved it.

Peter Althaus (Armandir) (3 years ago)
Under renovation on July 31st, so not everything is accessible yet. A large part can still be visited via specially built footbridges. The view is great and the ruins are worth a visit.

This and That (3 years ago)
Still under renovation. Still could enjoy the view. ? Climbing up is tough, but worth it.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright discopalace

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Sigmaringen Castle

Sigmaringen Castle was first mentioned in the year 1077 in the chronicles of Petershausen monastery. The oldest parts of the castle are concealed beneath the alterations made during the 17th and the 19th centuries. The secret of the earliest settlement built on this defendable rock will never be fully revealed: large-scale excavation work would be necessary, which the extensive land development renders impossible. Judging from the many Roman remains unearthed in the area around Sigmaringen, the 12th century keep known as the 'Roman Tower' could be traced back to a Roman predecessor.

The castle remains that have been preserved (gate, great hall and keep) date back to the Staufer period around 1200. The castle remains were integrated into subsequent buildings. The foundations of the castle buildings are to a large extent identical to the surrounding castle wall.

These remains give us a good idea of how the castle might have looked during the 12th century.

Farnsburg Castle Ruins

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