Werdenberg Castle

Werdenberg Castle is a fortress featuring interior spaces that display different historical periods, including collections about its rulers, regional administrators, and the Hilty family. The rooms are distributed across three floors and provide insight into the lives of several resident groups over centuries.

The castle was built in 1228 by the Montfort lords as a military stronghold and underwent major renovations in the 16th century to become a residence. This transformation reflects the shift from a purely defensive structure to a noble dwelling.

The castle hosts an annual music festival at Pentecost featuring early music, contemporary pieces, and multimedia art installations set within its historic rooms. Visitors experience these performances in the atmospheric setting of the castle chambers.

The castle opens April through October, Tuesday to Sunday, with group tours available in multiple languages. An on-site bistro serves regional food for visitors wanting to eat before or after exploring the rooms.

Medieval town houses were built inside the castle walls, reversing the typical settlement pattern where defensive walls surrounded existing communities. This unusual arrangement shows how the fortress also served as the foundation for urban growth.

Location: Grabs

Location: Werdenberg Constituency

Location: canton St. Gallen

Inception: 1228

Part of: list of cultural properties in Grabs

Address: Städtli, 9470 Werdenberg

Website: https://schloss-werdenberg.ch/museen/museen-werdenberg/schloss-werdenberg

GPS coordinates: 47.16850,9.46160

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:47