Top 19 Castles around Grabs
Best castles around Grabs are found in a region known for its historical significance and scenic landscapes. Grabs, Switzerland, is situated near the Rhine Valley, offering views of surrounding mountains. The area features well-preserved medieval architecture and historical sites. Werdenberg Castle, a Swiss heritage site, is a notable landmark in the municipality.
Best castles around Grabs
- The most popular castles is Vaduz Castle, a castle located on a rocky terrace above Vaduz. It serves as the seat of the Princely House of Liechtenstein and is a landmark of the town.
- Another must-see spot is Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle), a castle ruin and historical site. It offers views of the Rhine Valley and dates back to the 12th century.
- Visitors also love Government Quarter, Vaduz, a historical site that includes various official buildings. This area has developed into a center for state authorities since the 16th century.
- Grabs is known for its historical castles, castle ruins, and settlements with medieval architecture. These sites offer insights into the region's past and provide scenic viewpoints.
- The castles around Grabs are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 580 upvotes and over 350 photos, these sites are popular among explorers.
Last updated: May 9, 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.
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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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Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle)
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Vaduz - Town Centre "Städtle"
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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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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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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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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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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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The municipality in the Oberland is the residence of the prince as well as the seat of the state government, the state parliament and all courts. It is also the seat of the Roman Catholic archbishopric of the same name.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most historically significant castles in the Grabs region?
The Grabs region is rich in history. Werdenberg — Old Town, Castle and Lake is a Swiss heritage site of national significance, dating back to 1228. It was the original seat of the County of Werdenberg. Nearby, Vaduz Castle, though not open to the public, has roots in the 12th century and serves as the seat of the Princely House of Liechtenstein. The Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle) also offer a glimpse into 12th-century history.
Are there any family-friendly castles to visit around Grabs?
Yes, several castles and historical sites are suitable for families. Werdenberg — Old Town, Castle and Lake is a great option, offering a museum and the charm of Switzerland's smallest town. While Vaduz Castle itself is not open, the surrounding area provides excellent views and is considered family-friendly. The Government Quarter, Vaduz and Vaduz - Town Centre "Städtle" also offer historical exploration in a family-friendly setting.
Can I visit Werdenberg Castle, and what can I expect there?
Yes, Werdenberg Castle is open to visitors and functions as a museum, offering insights into its past and the region's history. You can explore the castle, stroll through the remarkably well-preserved medieval houses of Werdenberg village (Switzerland's smallest town), and enjoy the natural lake at the foot of the castle. The castle also hosts cultural events like the Werdenberg Castle Festival.
What kind of views can I expect from the castles in the Grabs area?
Many castles in the Grabs region offer stunning panoramic views. Werdenberg Castle, situated on a hill, provides scenic vistas of the Rhine Valley and the mountains of Austria and Liechtenstein. From Vaduz Castle, you can enjoy a great view of Vaduz and the surrounding landscape. The Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle) also boast magnificent views of the Rhine Valley.
Are there hiking trails near the castles around Grabs?
Yes, the region offers various outdoor activities, including hiking. For instance, the Schalun Castle Ruins (Wild Castle) can be reached from Vaduz via a steadily ascending forest track. While specific hiking routes directly to all castles are not detailed here, you can find numerous cycling and gravel biking routes in the broader area, such as those in the Cycling around Grabs guide, which often pass by or offer views of historical sites.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in the Grabs region?
The best time to visit the castles around Grabs generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the outdoor areas and trails. Summer is ideal for enjoying the natural lake near Werdenberg Castle and attending cultural events. While winter walks can be picturesque, some facilities or trails might have limited access due to snow or ice.
How can I get to Werdenberg Castle using public transport?
Werdenberg Castle is located in the municipality of Grabs. While specific public transport details to the castle itself are not provided, the village of Werdenberg is accessible. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules for connections to Werdenberg village, which is renowned as the smallest town in Switzerland and where the castle is located.
Is there parking available near the castles?
For Werdenberg — Old Town, Castle and Lake, parking is typically available near the village of Werdenberg. For castles like Vaduz Castle, while the castle itself is a private residence, parking is usually available in Vaduz, from where you can walk up to the castle for views. It's always recommended to check local signage for specific parking regulations.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the castles for visitors?
Yes, in the vicinity of the castles, you can find dining options. For instance, in Werdenberg — Old Town, Castle and Lake, there is a bistro in the castle courtyard. The nearby Vaduz - Town Centre "Städtle" also offers a variety of cafes and restaurants, inviting visitors to linger.
What makes the Werdenberg village unique?
The village of Werdenberg, where Werdenberg Castle is located, is renowned as the smallest town in Switzerland. It is celebrated for its remarkably well-preserved medieval houses, making it one of the few remaining urban wooden settlements from the Middle Ages in Europe. It offers a unique historical atmosphere alongside the castle and a picturesque natural lake.
Can I visit Vaduz Castle?
Vaduz Castle is the private residence of the Princely House of Liechtenstein and is therefore not open to the public. However, you can still enjoy a great view of Vaduz and the surrounding area from the castle's vicinity, and it remains a prominent landmark of the town.
What other historical sites are there in Vaduz besides the castle?
Beyond Vaduz Castle, the Government Quarter, Vaduz is a significant historical site. This area has developed into a center for state authorities since the 16th century and includes various official buildings. The Vaduz - Town Centre "Städtle" also features museums and historical architecture.
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