Stein Castle

Stein Castle is a medieval fortress ruin on Schlossberg hill in Baden, with remaining walls of its watchtower and chapel still visible. The site consists of scattered stonework that once formed residential quarters, defensive positions, and a chapel arranged within the fortification's layout.

The castle began as an administrative center for Habsburg territories and remained under their control until 1415. That year, Swiss military forces captured and destroyed the fortress during their expansion into the Aargau region.

The ruins reveal how medieval inhabitants lived on this hilltop and monitored the valley below. The remaining stones and foundations speak to a time when such fortresses served as centers of power and control.

The ruins are reached by climbing a steep staircase starting from Schlossbergplatz and passing through the City Tower's stone gateway. The path is walkable on foot but requires effort and sturdy footwear due to the uneven steps and slope.

Beyond serving as a fortress, the castle featured a residential tower, palace complex, and a triangular courtyard all integrated with the city wall system. This layout reveals that the site functioned as both an administrative headquarters and a lived-in residence.