Top 20 Castles around Sevelen
Best castles around Sevelen are found in a region rich with historical fortifications. While Sevelen itself features the wall remnant of Burg Herrenberg, the surrounding area offers a variety of castles. This includes well-preserved medieval fortresses and significant princely residences. The region's history is marked by these structures, providing insights into past eras.
Best castles around Sevelen
- The most popular castles is Vaduz Castle, a castle that serves as the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein. Its earliest parts date back to the 12th century, and it is a landmark of Vaduz. While not open to the public, its impressive presence above Vaduz is notable.
- Another must-see spot is Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle), a castle. These ruins offer remnants of an older fortification near Vaduz, providing scenic views of the Rhine Valley.
- Visitors also love Sargans Castle, a castle first mentioned in 1282. This medieval castle towers above Sargans and houses the Sarganserland Museum.
- Sevelen is known for its variety of castles, including well-preserved medieval fortresses, historical ruins, and princely residences. Visitors can explore different types of fortifications, each with its own historical significance.
- The castles around Sevelen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 580 upvotes and 350 photos shared.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Vaduz Castle
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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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Werdenberg — Old Town, Castle and Lake
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Werdenberg is a town with historical town charter in the eastern Swiss canton of St. Gallen. The town of Werdenberg belongs to the municipality of Grabs and is located 0.5 km west of Buchs. It boasts of being the smallest town in Switzerland with around 55-60 residents. Of the around 40 houses, some only serve as holiday homes. Werdenberg is often visited by tourists because of its very well-preserved medieval houses and the museum in Werdenberg Castle. The Werdenberg Castle Festival has been taking place in Werdenberg Castle since 1985.[
The county of Werdenberg included the castle and town of Werdenberg of the same name, the villages of Grabs, Buchs and Sevelen as well as jurisdiction over the Wartau domain (Wartau Castle and village of Gretschins). The noble family of the Counts of Werdenberg split into several side lines in 1277. The actual county of Werdenberg remained with the line of the Counts of Werdenberg-Heiligenberg.
In 1402 they pledged the County of Werdenberg to the Counts of Montfort-Tettnang, from whom it passed to the Counts of Sax-Misox in 1483. In 1485 the city of Lucerne acquired the county and passed it on to the Barons of Kastelwart in 1493. However, the county remained connected to the Confederation through a castle law with Lucerne, even when the county changed hands again to the Barons of Hewen in 1498. Werdenberg also fought on the side of the Confederates in the Swabian War. In 1517 the Barons of Hewen sold Werdenberg to the canton of Glarus for 21,500 guilders.
Glarus administered Werdenberg very strictly as a bailiwick - the Glarus lords were anything but popular in the Rhine Valley. Because of the confusing legal situation between the counties of Werdenberg and Sargans in the Wartau rule, there were repeated disputes between the bailiffs, which in the “Wartau trade” of 1694/95 were brought up to the federal parliament.
With the fall of the old Confederation and the founding of the Helvetic Republic in 1798, Werdenberg became part of the canton of Linth. When this was dissolved again with the mediation constitution of 1803, Werdenberg became part of the canton of St. Gallen.
Text from Wikipedia
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Government Quarter, Vaduz
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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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Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle)
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Sargans Castle
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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 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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Schalun Castle, also known as the Wildschloss (Wild Castle), can be reached from Vaduz in about an hour along a steadily ascending forest track. Along the way, you'll also pass the new viewing platform. From the castle, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Rhine Valley. Source: Schalun Castle (Wild Castle) - Official Tourism Website of the Principality of Liechtenstein https://share.google/etl2VY6VLRFX8CUZh
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...also known as the Wildschloss (Wild Castle) is definitely a highlight. It's only a ruin, but it's a great place to rest and there's even a barbecue area.
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Sargans Castle is definitely worth a visit!
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The state's government district is located on the east side of the spacious Peter Kaiser Square. Since 2008, the government building, the state parliament building and the state archive have formed the newly designed government district with the impressive Peter Kaiser Square.
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The royal family resides high above the city. Even though you can't go into the castle itself, you can still enjoy a great view of Vaduz from up there.
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High above the capital Vaduz, on a mountain spur, lies the castle-like Vaduz Castle. The castle, which is not open to the public, was probably built in the 13th century and is now owned by the Princes of Lichtenstein. The mighty keep, with its 4-meter-thick walls, is remarkable and immediately draws the viewer's attention. A footpath leads from a free car park to the castle's exterior. Even if you can't go inside, it's still worth a visit.
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Vaduz Castle is owned and inhabited by the princely family. The castle is therefore not open to the public. But around the castle you will find many beautiful places to rest and enjoy the panorama. www.fuerstenhaus.li
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most historically significant castles near Sevelen?
The region around Sevelen is rich in history. Notable castles include Werdenberg Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress that was historically part of the County of Werdenberg. Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein, dates back to the 12th century. Additionally, Sargans Castle, first mentioned in 1282, houses the Sarganserland Museum.
Are there any family-friendly castles to visit near Sevelen?
Yes, several castles in the area are considered family-friendly. Werdenberg Castle, with its museum and the charming smallest town in Switzerland, offers an engaging experience for all ages. Sargans Castle also welcomes families and features a museum.
Can I visit Vaduz Castle, the residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein?
While Vaduz Castle is an impressive landmark and a must-see from the outside, it is the private residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein and is not open to the public for tours. You can, however, enjoy its magnificent presence above Vaduz and the surrounding views.
What kind of natural features or viewpoints can I expect near these castles?
Many castles offer stunning natural surroundings and viewpoints. For instance, Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle) near Vaduz provides magnificent views of the Rhine Valley from its rocky terrace. Sargans Castle also offers a wonderful view of the valley from its elevated position.
Are there hiking or cycling routes near the castles around Sevelen?
Yes, the region offers various outdoor activities. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Old Rhine Bridge Vaduz–Sevelen' or the 'Illspitz mouth of the Rhine – Rheindamm Cycle Path' which are part of the Cycling around Sevelen guide. For mountain hikes, consider challenging trails such as the 'Gaflei – Fürstensteig Trail' or 'Fürstensteig Trail – Kuhgrat Summit' found in the Mountain Hikes around Sevelen guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles near Sevelen?
The best time to visit the castles around Sevelen is generally during the spring, summer, and autumn months when the weather is mild and conducive for exploring. Many castles and museums have extended opening hours during these seasons. Winter can also offer picturesque views, especially for outdoor ruins like Schalun Castle Ruins, but check specific opening times for indoor attractions.
Are there any castle ruins to explore for a different historical experience?
Absolutely. The Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle) near Vaduz offer a unique experience. These remnants of an older fortification provide a sense of medieval archaeology and history amidst nature, along with scenic views.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in the Sevelen region?
Visitors frequently appreciate the journey back in time offered by the well-preserved medieval structures and the historical insights provided by museums within castles like Werdenberg Castle and Sargans Castle. The impressive presence of Vaduz Castle and the panoramic views from various castle sites are also highly rated.
Is there a castle directly in Sevelen?
Historically, Sevelen had Burg Herrenberg, built around 1255. However, today only a wall remnant of this castle can be seen. For more prominent and well-preserved castles, you'll need to venture into the immediate surrounding region.
Are there cafes or restaurants available at or near the castles?
Yes, some castles offer dining options. For example, Sargans Castle has a restaurant that is open for a significant part of the year. The small town surrounding Werdenberg Castle also has a bistro in the castle courtyard and other local establishments.
How can I reach the castles near Sevelen using public transport?
Public transport options vary by castle. For castles like Vaduz Castle and Schalun Castle Ruins, you would typically travel to Vaduz, Liechtenstein, and then proceed by local bus or on foot. Werdenberg Castle is a short distance from Buchs, which is accessible by train. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific routes.
What is unique about Werdenberg Castle and its surroundings?
Werdenberg Castle is unique for being part of the smallest town in Switzerland, also named Werdenberg. This town is known for its very well-preserved medieval wooden houses and a picturesque lake, offering a complete historical and scenic experience. The castle itself houses a museum and hosts the Werdenberg Castle Festival.
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