Alt-Wartburg ruin, Medieval castle ruin in Oftringen, Switzerland
Alt-Wartburg is a castle ruin in Oftringen consisting of a residential tower and fortified courtyard positioned on a southern hillside. Stone walls still stand at the site, showing the solid construction methods used in medieval times.
The lords of Ifenthal built the original castle at the end of the 12th century and expanded it during the early 13th century. This growth period shows how the family gained more influence in the area over time.
The site reveals how medieval lords used this location as both a residence and a seat of power for the surrounding region. The hilltop position shows how strategic elevation shaped where people chose to build.
The ruins are easy to reach from Oftringen on well-marked hiking trails that take about one and a half hours from nearby Olten station. Visit on dry days when the paths are firm and you can move safely around the rocky terrain.
A rock path circles the southern side of the hill and traces the original layout of the former living quarters and courtyard. Walking this path today gives a sense of how the space was once organized and used.
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