Farnsburg Castle Ruins

Ormalingen, Switzerland

Farnsburg castle ruins are the remains from the 14th century. It was built by the Counts of Thierstein between 1319-1342. In the 15th century Farnsburg lost its military purpose. The buildings were left to decay and it was easily conquered in 1653 (the Peasants' War) and finally in 1798 (by the revolting farmers). In 1798 the city Vogt was finally expelled and the castle was set on fire by landowners. The ruin was then used as a quarry.

A good starting point for a hike to the ruins is the Landgasthof Farnsburg - from here it is 20 minutes walk to the ruins. There are also BBQ and picnic facilities in close proximity to the ancient ruins.

Address

Farnsburg 194, Ormalingen, Switzerland

See all sites in Ormalingen

Details

Founded: 1319-1342
Category: Castles and fortifications in Switzerland

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Sonja Soom (2 years ago)
Was once a beautiful castle now ruins you can climb the steps small and narrow but when you get to the top you have a great view

Simon Gättelin (2 years ago)
The renovation of the Farbsburg is in the final phase, almost everything is accessible. The renovation of the shield wall has been very successful, you have a wonderful view of the beautiful landscape from the top

Alex Dawson-Stanley (3 years ago)
Wonderful short walk up to the castle. I really like the fact that they still provide access up and around the castle while they are in the process of restoration. At the parking spot at the bottom there is a wonderful tree with a great history. My kids loved it.

Peter Althaus (Armandir) (3 years ago)
Under renovation on July 31st, so not everything is accessible yet. A large part can still be visited via specially built footbridges. The view is great and the ruins are worth a visit.

This and That (3 years ago)
Still under renovation. Still could enjoy the view. ? Climbing up is tough, but worth it.

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Finest Norman castles in Italy

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Photo from Flickr, copyright Andy Hay

Historic Site of the week

Argos Theater

The ancient Argos Theater was built in 320 BC. and is located in Argos, Greece against Larissa Hill. Nearby from this site is Agora, Roman Odeon, and the Baths of Argos. The theater is one of the largest architectural developments in Greece and was renovated in ca 120 AD.

The Hellenistic theater at Argos is cut into the hillside of the Larisa, with 90 steps up a steep incline, forming a narrow rectilinear cavea. Among the largest theaters in Greece, it held about 20,000 spectators and is divided by two landings into three horizontal sections. Staircases further divide the cavea into four cunei, corresponding to the tribes of Argos A high wall was erected to prevent unauthorized access into the theatron and may have helped the acoustics, but it is said the sound quality is still very good today.

Around 120 CE, both theaters were renovated in the Roman style.