Top 19 Castles around Sargans
Castles around Sargans offer a rich historical experience, with structures dating back to the 13th century. The region features a notable castle perched on a hill, providing views of the Rhine River Valley and surrounding mountains. This area is recognized for its historical landmarks and cultural significance. The castles here serve as important heritage sites, often housing museums that detail local history and traditions.
Best castles around Sargans
- The most popular castles is Vaduz Castle, a castle that serves as the seat of the Princely House of Liechtenstein. While not open to the public, it offers views of Vaduz.
- Another must-see spot is Wartau Castle Ruins, a historical site where visitors can explore the remains of a 13th-century fortress. The outdoor courtyard features barbecue areas, benches, and tables.
- Visitors also love Sargans Castle, a medieval castle that houses the Sarganserland Museum. The castle complex includes a restaurant and offers views of the valley.
- Sargans is known for medieval fortresses, castle ruins, and castles that have been converted into museums. The region offers a variety of historical sites to explore, from well-preserved structures to ancient ruins.
- The castles around Sargans are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 580 upvotes and 350 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Vaduz Castle
Highlight • Castle
Vaduz Castle, formerly also called Hohenliechtenstein, is located on a rocky terrace above Vaduz, the seat of government of the Principality of Liechtenstein. Today it is the town's landmark and the seat of the Princely House of Liechtenstein.
The time when the castle was built is not certain. Today, however, it is assumed that the first parts of the building were built in the 12th century. The keep was probably built as one of the first structures and was later supplemented by a residential tower which, thanks to dendrochronological studies, can be dated to 1287. In the decades that followed, the facility was successively expanded and extended.
The castle has been owned by the Princes of Liechtenstein since 1712. From 1712 to 1732 it was now called Hohenliechtenstein and served as the seat of the bailiff with official apartments in the west wing. In the decades and centuries that followed, the castle increasingly fell into disrepair, so that the first restoration plans were drawn up at the beginning of the 20th century.
Prince Johann II finally undertook thorough restoration from 1905 to 1912 under the direction of state curator Franz von Wieser from Innsbruck. Alois Gstrein from Brixen worked as master builder. Prince Franz Josef II had it extended and in 1939 he and his family took up permanent residence in the palace.
The palace is privately owned by the royal family and is therefore not open to the public. The reigning sovereign receives state guests and other visitors for private talks in the palace.
Text/Source: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Vaduz
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Government Quarter, Vaduz
Highlight • Historical Site
Southern town center of Vaduz at the foot of the hillside of the castle forest, bordered by the English building on the north side and the Vaduz parish church of St. Florin on the south side.
In the late Middle Ages, on this section of the Reichstrasse Lindau–Milan below Vaduz Castle, there was a manorial court, the manorial (own) chapel of St. Florin with court chaplaincy buildings, the so-called Tschaggaturm (→residential towers) and a small customs house; The court sessions and the Landammann elections for the County of Vaduz took place near the nearby lime tree. Poeschel suspects that this is the center of the gaugrave's, later Werdenberg's, possessions in the Vaduz area. Since the 16th century, the area, which was originally located away from the village, has developed into the so-called official quarters (today the government district) through the settlement of manorial and later state authorities.
In 1585 the erection of a «Cantzley» building is mentioned for the first time, which may have been the Landvogtei or today's Rheinbergerhaus. The latter is occupied as an office building in 1617/19, in the 18th/19th In the 19th century it was the office and residence of the pension master, later the seat of the princely domain administration; since 1968 it has housed the Liechtenstein Music School. The bailiff, also mentioned in 1617/19, was the residence (with interruptions in the 18th century) until 1918, and until 1865 also the official seat of the bailiff (or the provincial governor from 1848). The Estates Parliament also met in this building, known as the Verweserhaus, from 1818 to 1862. Until the 19th century, between the Verweserhaus and the Rheinbergerhaus, there was the former manorial courtyard with the «Schellahüsli», which served as a prison.
The Verweserhaus is attached to the former stately tavern that was built around 1500. This also served as a customs building from 1637 and as a government building from 1865 to 1905. The Liechtenstein National Museum has been located here since 1972. To the north of it, the Estates House was built in 1866-67 as a meeting place for the state parliament, which also housed the offices of the regional courts, judges' apartments and a prison bar. It was used as a secondary school from 1905, as a state library from 1961 and demolished in 1970. Between 1903 and 1905, today's government building with the state parliament hall was built between the administrator's house and the parish church built in 1872 (also the cathedral since 1997). Other official buildings in the government quarter are the Schädlerhaus (today, among other things, the registry office), the Liechtensteinische Landesbank (1952), the state archive (1962) and the post office and administration building (1975).
A project by the Ticino architect Luigi Snozzi, which emerged from an urban planning ideas and project competition (1984-87) to redesign the entire area between the English building and the parish church, was rejected in a referendum in 1993. The new state parliament building planned by Hansjörg Göritz (Hanover) was built in 2002-07 between the administration building and the government building, adopting Snozzi's basic urban planning idea (hillside development). The extension of the State Museum (1999-2003) by the architects Brunhart, Brunner, Kranz (Balzers) and the new construction of the archive and administration building (2006-09) by the architects Keller and Brander (Vaduz) complete the hillside development.
Author: Michael Pattyn
historisches-lexikon.li/Regierungsviertel
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Sargans Castle
Highlight • Castle
The Sarganserschloss was first read in a document as early as 1282. In 1386 its owner, Count Johann I (called "Count Hans" for short) fought on the side of Austria near Sempach against the Confederates. Two years later he planned to take part in the battle against the Glarus people at Näfels, but luckily he did not appear with his people on the Kerenzerberg until the meeting had already been decided.
After the Old Zurich War, Sargans became subject to the Confederates. From then on (from 1459 to 1798) they administered this property as a common rule. 181 bailiffs replaced each other one after the other in the Sarganserschloss (each after a two-year term of office). The order of their appearance can still be read on the coat of arms that adorns the city side of the mansion: Zurich, Lucerne, Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden, Nidwalden, Zug and Glarus. (After the Villmerger Wars, from 1712, also Bern.)
The castle has belonged to the local community of Sargans since 1899. Architect Eugen Probst renovated it sensibly at the turn of the century. In 1969/70 the facade, the ring walls and the retaining walls were subjected to another renovation with the help of Heimatschutz and the federal government and the canton of St. Gallen. A visit to the old manor house and the Sarganserländisches Heimatmuseum in the tower are worthwhile!
Text: Pedagogical Publishing House LLZ
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Vaduz - Town Centre "Städtle"
Highlight • Settlement
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Vaduz Town Hall
Highlight • Monument
The Vaduz Town Hall was built in 1932/33. It was thoroughly renovated between 1982 and 1984.
The balcony fresco by Johannes Troyer on the south façade shows St. Urban, the patron saint of winegrowers. The municipal coat of arms carved in stone can be seen on the entrance front.
In 1931, the municipal assembly and in 1932 the reinforced municipal council approved the construction of a new Vaduz Town Hall, the cost of which was almost three times the total income of the municipality. The driving force behind the project, which was built in 1932/1933, was the then mayor Ludwig Ospelt.
The economic and financial situation in Vaduz at the time was anything but good. Nevertheless, in 1931, people were brave enough to agree to a project whose estimated cost was up to CHF 350,000.00. A huge sum for the time, if you compare it with the annual tax and total revenue.
The municipal assembly decided on November 17, 1931 to build a town hall with premises for the Bank in Liechtenstein on the building site opposite the "Engel" inn. Numerous planners tried to get the contract. Ultimately, Franz Roeckle was allowed to present his project drafts to the reinforced municipal council on January 29, 1932 and was awarded the contract on the same day. The drafts were revised several times in collaboration with the mayor. On September 27, 1932, the permanent municipal council approved Roeckle's revised plans, and on September 30, the reinforced municipal council approved them.
The construction work progressed quickly and the town hall was officially opened on November 19, 1933. In addition to the mayor's office, the municipal council and the municipal administration, the Vaduz town hall served a variety of purposes. It housed the Bank in Liechtenstein, the Liechtensteinische Landesbank, the post office and various clubs. It has been renovated and rebuilt several times.
A comprehensive renovation took place in 1984 under Mayor Arthur Konrad. Since then, the town hall has been used exclusively for municipal purposes. Ludwig Ospelt (mayor from 1930 - 1933 and 1936 - 1942) was the first incumbent to have his seat in the town hall.
Text / Source: tourismus.li
tourismus.li/lie/ort/Rathaus%20Vaduz
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Vaduz Castle, "Landmark of Vaduz" Vaduz Castle is the landmark of Liechtenstein's capital city and is visible from afar. Vaduz Castle sits perched approximately 120 meters above the city of Vaduz. The castle's origins likely date back to the 12th century. The keep was probably one of the first structures built and was later supplemented by a residential tower. This residential tower can be dated to 1287. It is first mentioned in historical records in 1322. It came into the possession of the House of Liechtenstein in 1712 and, under the name Hohenliechtenstein, served as the seat of the Landvogtei (bailiwick) with official residences in the west wing until 1732. Afterward, it fell into increasing disrepair, and it was not until 1905 to 1912 that it underwent a thorough renovation and restoration. Prince Franz Josef II then had it expanded and made habitable. In 1939, he moved in with his family and took up permanent residence there. Visiting: The castle is not open to the public. A glimpse inside the castle can be seen in the film "Princely Moments" at the Alte Kino Vaduz (Old Cinema Vaduz). Text / Source: Official Tourism Website of the Principality of Liechtenstein https://tourismus.li/map/poi/schloss-vaduz-8fb7e6cf-99b5-4ffb-b600-9e4c66398e1f.html
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From 2002, stands in front of the town hall
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Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, lies on the Rhine River near the Swiss border. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the 12th-century Vaduz Castle is a royal family residence. In the pedestrian-friendly town center, called Städtle, lies the Liechtenstein Art Museum, with its polished facade and modern art exhibits. Nearby, the National Museum, housed in a medieval building, houses archaeological and cultural artifacts.
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This town hall is something special.
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Sargans Castle is definitely worth a visit!
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The beautiful Town Hall Hall on the second floor is particularly suitable for lectures, receptions, or chamber concerts. Paintings of the Princes of Liechtenstein and the mayors of Vaduz lend it a special atmosphere, further enhanced by the warm red of the walls. The Town Hall Hall has a small stage and can accommodate up to 120 people.
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Born in 1928, the artist is one of Switzerland's most important sculptors. He lives and works near Lugano and has studios in Venice and Mexico. Nag Arnoldi has received numerous awards, and his large-format bronzes can be found in many public and private spaces and buildings.
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Vaduz Town Hall from 1932 The Vaduz Town Hall was built in 1932/33. It was thoroughly renovated between 1982 and 1984. The balcony fresco by Johannes Troyer on the south façade shows St. Urban, the patron saint of winegrowers. The municipal coat of arms carved in stone can be seen on the entrance front. In 1931, the municipal assembly and in 1932 the reinforced municipal council approved the construction of a new Vaduz Town Hall, the cost of which was almost three times the total income of the municipality. The driving force behind the project, which was built in 1932/1933, was the then mayor Ludwig Ospelt. The economic and financial situation in Vaduz at the time was anything but good. Nevertheless, in 1931, people were brave enough to agree to a project whose estimated cost was up to CHF 350,000.00. A huge sum for the time, if you compare it with the annual tax and total revenue. The municipal assembly decided on November 17, 1931 to build a town hall with premises for the Bank in Liechtenstein on the building site opposite the "Engel" inn. Numerous planners tried to get the contract. Ultimately, Franz Roeckle was allowed to present his project drafts to the reinforced municipal council on January 29, 1932 and was awarded the contract on the same day. The drafts were revised several times in collaboration with the mayor. On September 27, 1932, the permanent municipal council approved Roeckle's revised plans, and on September 30, the reinforced municipal council approved them. The construction work progressed quickly and the town hall was officially opened on November 19, 1933. In addition to the mayor's office, the municipal council and the municipal administration, the Vaduz town hall served a variety of purposes. It housed the Bank in Liechtenstein, the Liechtensteinische Landesbank, the post office and various clubs. It has been renovated and rebuilt several times. A comprehensive renovation took place in 1984 under Mayor Arthur Konrad. Since then, the town hall has been used exclusively for municipal purposes. Ludwig Ospelt (mayor from 1930 - 1933 and 1936 - 1942) was the first incumbent to have his seat in the town hall. Text / Source: tourismus.li https://tourismus.li/lie/ort/Rathaus%20Vaduz/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical significance do the castles around Sargans hold?
The castles in the Sargans region are rich in history, with structures like Sargans Castle dating back to the 13th century. Sargans Castle, for instance, was the ancestral seat of the Counts of Werdenberg-Sargans and later served as a federal bailiwick. Many of these sites, including the Wartau Castle Ruins, offer a glimpse into medieval life and regional governance.
Are there any castles that house museums in the Sargans area?
Yes, Sargans Castle is home to the Sarganserland Museum. This museum is highly regarded, having been recognized as the 'Museum of the Year in Europe' in 1983. It offers a deep dive into the history, sights, and customs of the Sarganserland region, spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Can I visit Vaduz Castle, and what can I expect there?
Vaduz Castle serves as the private residence of the Princely House of Liechtenstein and is therefore not open to the public. However, it is a prominent landmark offering impressive views of Vaduz and the surrounding area from its elevated position.
Are there family-friendly activities at the castles near Sargans?
Absolutely. The Sarganserland Museum within Sargans Castle features a children's trail where younger visitors can engage with history through activities like trying on knight helmets and medieval costumes. The outdoor courtyard at Wartau Castle Ruins also has barbecue areas, benches, and tables, making it a great spot for a family outing.
What kind of views can I expect from the castles in the Sargans region?
Many castles offer panoramic views. Sargans Castle, perched on a rock above the old town, provides impressive vistas of Sargans, the Rhine River Valley, and the foothills of Mount Gonzen. Similarly, Vaduz Castle offers great views of Vaduz.
Are there dining options available at any of the castles?
Yes, Sargans Castle houses a restaurant within its historic rooms, blending culture and history with food and drink. It also features an impressive Torkel cellar where you can sample local wines.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Sargans?
The region offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find various hiking trails, such as the 'Viewpoint – Sargans Castle loop from Sargans' (moderate, 10.3 km) or the more challenging 'Ladder Trail to Gonzen – Gonzen Summit View loop from Sargans' (difficult, 18.9 km). For more options, explore the Hiking around Sargans guide. There are also running and MTB trails available, detailed in the Running Trails around Sargans and MTB Trails around Sargans guides.
How accessible is Sargans Castle by public transport?
Sargans Castle is easily accessible, located a moderate walk from the Sargans train station. This makes it convenient for visitors relying on public transportation.
What makes Wartau Castle Ruins a unique visit?
Wartau Castle Ruins offer a historical site where you can explore the remains of a 13th-century fortress. The outdoor courtyard is well-designed with barbecue areas, benches, and tables, making it an ideal spot for a picnic amidst historical surroundings.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Sargans?
While specific opening hours vary, the region's castles, particularly those with museums like Sargans Castle, are generally enjoyable year-round. For outdoor activities and scenic views, spring through autumn offers pleasant weather for exploring the castle grounds and nearby trails.
Can I learn about the local culture and customs at these castles?
Yes, the Sarganserland Museum within Sargans Castle provides extensive exhibits on the history, sights, and customs of the Sarganserland region. It covers themes such as Alpine agriculture, mining, clothing, medieval church and castle life, and industrialization, offering a comprehensive cultural experience.
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