Grünenberg castle ruin, Medieval castle ruin in Melchnau, Switzerland
Grünenberg is a medieval castle ruin on a hilltop that, together with two other fortifications, forms a connected defensive system. The three castles of Grünenberg, Schnabelburg, and Langenstein sit close to each other and were linked by their positioning.
The Barons of Grünenberg built this fortress in the 11th and 12th centuries and ruled the Oberaargau region. By the 15th century, their power ended and the castle was abandoned.
The ruins show how medieval noble families expressed their power through buildings and controlled their lands. You can still see how the stones and walls from that era reflect the structure of their rule.
You reach the ruins via a marked hiking trail from the Melchnau Oberdorf parking area, which takes about ten minutes uphill. The terrain is uneven, so wear sturdy shoes and allow time for the climb.
This location was the site of a remarkable strategy: three separate castles were built so close together that they could support each other. This was an unusual solution for medieval defense systems in the region.
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