Iberg Castle, Wattwil, Switzerland

Iberg Castle is located south-west of the town of Wattwil. The central keep is six stories tall and has an entrance on the north-west corner. The keep is surrounded by a curtain wall. The castle hill is protected by moats and some walls.

Iberg Castle was built in 1240 by Heinrich von Iberg who was a vassal of the Prince-Abbot of St. Gallen. The castle was briefly conquered in 1249 following the Toggenburg fratricide and again in 1290 during the rule of the anti-Abbot Konrad von Gundelfingen in St. Gallen. It was damaged during the Appenzell Wars in 1405 and soon thereafter rebuilt. During the conflicts leading to the Battles of Villmergen (from 1699-1712), the castle was besieged in 1710. After the Treaty of Baden in 1718 it was given back to the Abbot.

During the suppression of the monasteries in 1805, the castle became privately owned. Some of the housing was demolished in 1835, but the roof and battlements were rebuilt in 1902 and 1965 by the municipality.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Markus Howald (11 months ago)
Great place to stay, it has a barbecue area. The courtyard and castle are in good condition and are freely accessible every day (except in winter) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Great view! It is definitely worth it! ?

ME (12 months ago)
Idyllic place with breathtaking views. Unfortunately, the gate to the Yburg is often closed when the board says it should be open and vice versa.

Ringo Csallner (3 years ago)
Nice little castle, I wasn't talking about ruins, it's been beautifully renovated. The hiking trail from the parking lot is not far and is not too steep up to the castle. There are 95 steps to the top floor. The outdoor area is well maintained, with barbecue area, benches and rubbish bins. The view from the tower is magnificent, the Churfirsten and the Säntis can be clearly seen.

Kelsey Hendon (3 years ago)
Very beautiful spot to visit overlooking the city. The structure doesn’t have anyone working it, you tour it yourself which is kind of nice. The cows are the only inhabitants of this attraction.

Olivier R (3 years ago)
Access is free and free during the day. The dungeon has been perfectly restored and it is possible to climb up to the frame. Access to the various secure openings. Including the wooden outdoor walkway ?. What sensations ?, and what a view ??. (Pictures)

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Klearchos Kapoutsis

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The history of the castle is the subject of different legends.

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