Best castles around Bubikon are centered around the historically significant Ritterhaus Bubikon, a well-preserved former Commandery of the Knights Hospitaller. This region in the Swiss Canton of Zürich offers a deep dive into medieval history and architecture. The area features a complex of ancient buildings, including a chapel and a museum, providing insights into the Knights Hospitaller's role in medieval Europe. Visitors can explore various historical sites that showcase regional religious and political history.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
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Wooden Bridge Seedamm-Weg / Route Pfäffikon SZ - Rapperswil SG "A monumental project at the turn of the millennium," inaugurated on April 6, 2001. The narrow passage between Lake Zurich and Lake Obersee has always been used by local residents to cross the water. Until the Middle Ages, this was done by ferry. After Rapperswil was sold to the House of Habsburg-Austria in 1354, Duke Rudolf IV, the Wise, decided to replace the ferry service with a wooden bridge. Completed in 1358, the structure was 1450 meters long and rested on 546 oak piles. It was 12 feet (approximately 4 meters) wide and designed for pedestrians, carts, and livestock. Toll revenues financed construction and maintenance, with the residents of Rapperswil, the monks of Einsiedeln Abbey, and some farmers from the Schwyz territories of Höfe and March being exempt from the bridge toll. The daring structure was also exposed to various dangers. For example, it was repeatedly damaged or even destroyed during wartime events, and natural forces such as waves and storms also took their toll. For this reason, the planks were not nailed to the bridge structure, and there was no railing. This meant that a storm could not tear down the entire bridge; only the loose planks were blown into the lake. Therefore, crossing the bridge was not a safe pleasure for everyone. In 1939/51, the dam was renovated, and the bridges were reinforced to handle the increasing car, truck, and train traffic. A stroll on the dam's sidewalk had long ceased to be enjoyable. Therefore, the idea of a new pedestrian bridge in the form of the old wooden bridge seemed appealing. The new wooden bridge was inaugurated on April 6, 2001. It is the longest wooden bridge in Switzerland (841 m). It rests on a total of 233 piles. Text / Source: City of Rapperswil-Jona, St. Gallerstrasse, Jona https://www.rapperswil-jona.ch/naherholungimfreien/6552
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Variety! You have to drive around too many places and keep getting away from the lake.
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The impressive building is home to exciting exhibitions, a large library and a collection of weapons from the Middle Ages. Only open in the summer months.
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The castle was first mentioned in writing in 1265. The Freiherrenturm, built before 1200, is the oldest part of the castle. Its outer shells are made of mighty boulders. 1287 sold the last baron Rudolf III. for lack of descendants, the lordship of Wädenswil to the Johanniterhaus Bubikon. Wädenswil became a commander of the Johanniter. After the Reformation, the Johanniter sold the lordship of Wädenswil with all rights to the city of Zurich in 1549. In 1900 an initiative committee acquired the castle grounds and in 1902 established the Foundation for the Preservation of Alt-Wädenswil Castle.
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A really impressive ruin, with several barbecue areas around and on the main castle. The ruin is nowhere secured by railings, CLIMB AT YOUR OWN RISK!
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One of the most impressive ruins in the area.
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Wooden bridge Rapperswil-Hurden The Rapperswil–Hurden wooden bridge refers to the prehistoric lake crossings in the area of the Seedamm as well as historical bridge structures, such as the wooden bridge built between 1358 and 1360 on behalf of Rudolf IV (Rudolf the Spirited) of Habsburg-Austria and new buildings that could be used until 1878. These created a pedestrian and wagon connection between Rapperswil and Hurden in the area of the upper Lake Zurich. Text/ Source: Wikipedia https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holzbr%C3%BCcke_Rapperswil%E2%80%93Hurden
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The Bubikon Commandery, also known as Ritterhaus Bubikon, is one of the best-preserved Knights Hospitaller commanderies in Europe. Established in the late 12th century, it offers a deep dive into medieval history, showcasing the role of the Knights Hospitaller and regional religious and political history from the Middle Ages through the Reformation.
At the Bubikon Commandery, you can explore a complex of medieval buildings, including the commander's house, the rectory, and the Chapel of St. John the Baptist, which dates back to 1192 AD. It also houses the Ritterhaus History Museum with coin and antique arms collections, and a charming medieval herb garden.
Yes, several sites are great for families. The Altwädenswil Castle Ruins are a popular spot with several barbecue areas and serve as an adventure playground for children. The Bubikon Commandery offers a historical experience for all ages, and the Irgenhausen Roman Fort is also considered family-friendly with space for picnics.
The area around Bubikon offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes that pass by the Bubikon Commandery. There are also many cycling routes and road cycling routes that explore the scenic surroundings and connect various points of interest.
The best time to visit is generally during the warmer months, from spring to autumn. The Bubikon Commandery museum is typically closed during the winter months, so checking their official website for current opening hours is recommended. The outdoor ruins and forts can be visited year-round, weather permitting.
Yes, the Irgenhausen Roman Fort is a significant historical site nearby. Dating back to the 3rd or 4th century, it is the largest Roman fort in Switzerland and offers a nice view of the Pfäffikersee.
Absolutely. The Irgenhausen Roman Fort provides a beautiful view of the Pfäffikersee and the surrounding area. Additionally, the View of Rapperswil's Old Town and Castle offers picturesque vistas over Lake Zurich.
The Altwädenswil Castle Ruins are highly regarded for their impressive structure and family-friendly atmosphere. It features several barbecue areas and is considered an adventure playground for children, making it ideal for a day out with the family.
Yes, the Bubikon Commandery has a cute bistro on-site where visitors can enjoy refreshments. For other locations, it's advisable to check local listings or nearby towns for dining options.
The Pfäffikon Castle, also known as Weissenburg, has a rich history dating back to the 10th century when the land was donated to the Einsiedeln monastery. The castle tower was built in the 13th century to protect monastery income, and residential buildings were added later. It served as an administrative center and refuge for the monastery, playing a significant role in various military conflicts.
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth and preservation of sites like the Bubikon Commandery, which brings the Middle Ages to life. The family-friendly nature of places like Altwädenswil Castle Ruins, with its barbecue areas and adventure opportunities, is also highly appreciated. The scenic views from sites like Irgenhausen Roman Fort are also a highlight.
While specific public transport details for each site vary, Bubikon itself is well-connected within the Swiss public transport network. For detailed travel information to individual castles like the Bubikon Commandery, it's best to consult local transport schedules or the official websites of the attractions.


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