Vilsegg Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Vils, Austria.
Vilsegg Castle is a ruin perched on a rocky hilltop near the Austrian-German border region. The site sits roughly 60 meters above the Vils valley and is dominated by remains of a stone tower.
The fortress was built around 1220 as a stronghold for the Hohenegg family serving the Bishopric of Kempten. After centuries of use, it was abandoned by the 18th century and fell into decay.
The ruins display features of Hohenstaufen architecture found in this Tyrolean region. The nearly square tower shape defines how the structure appears to visitors today.
Visitors can reach the ruins by hiking a steep path starting from the Chapel of St Anne up to the former outer gate. Sturdy footwear and sure footing are essential, especially when the ground is wet or muddy.
The tower originally had four open floors with no vaulting and remained inhabited until 1709. This long occupation is striking because the site deteriorated rapidly into ruins shortly after abandonment.
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