Greifenstein Castle, Medieval castle ruin in Filisur, Switzerland
Greifenstein Castle is a medieval stone ruin perched on a rock formation at 1,246 meters above sea level in the Filisur area. The remains sit directly above the Rhaetian Railway's famous spiral tunnel, which curves beneath the castle's elevated position.
The castle was built in the 12th century and later became an administrative outpost for the Bishop of Chur starting in the late 14th century. The bishops abandoned the site in 1537 as their authority in the region gradually shifted.
The structure represents medieval Swiss defensive architecture and maintains classification as a Class A Swiss cultural property of national significance.
The ruins can be reached from Filisur station, which is served by the Rhaetian Railway with regular connections. The walk up to the castle is steep and requires sturdy footwear, though the views become rewarding as you climb.
Few visitors realize that in 1840 local residents salvaged stones and wooden beams from the crumbling castle to build Filisur's school building. This recycled medieval material connects the school directly to the castle's past.
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