Rosenburg Castle

Rosenburg Castle is a medieval fortress ruin perched on a hilltop in Herisau at an elevation of about 926 meters (3,040 feet). The surviving stone walls reveal the robust construction typical of fortifications from this era, with particularly thick foundations that have endured centuries of exposure.

The fortress was established around 1150 by the Rorschach family as a territorial stronghold in the region. A major attack and fire in 1403, triggered by local resistance to the authority of the Abbot of St. Gall, led to its destruction and abandonment.

Archaeological excavations in 1936 and 1937 revealed numerous weapons and iron tools, providing insights into medieval Swiss military architecture.

The ruins can be reached via Ramsen in Herisau, with regular public transportation linking the area to major Swiss cities. Walking paths lead to the site, and visitors should wear suitable footwear as terrain can be uneven on the hill.

The original castle comprised two distinct structures, a main tower and auxiliary buildings positioned on the western slope of the hill. Archaeological investigations in the 1930s uncovered weapons and iron tools that shed light on medieval Swiss military engineering and daily life at the fortress.

Location: Herisau

Location: Appenzell Ausserrhoden

Inception: 1150

Address: oberhalb Tüfenau

GPS coordinates: 47.38844,9.25441

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:24