Laufenburg ruin

Laufenburg ruin is a castle structure on a rocky hill south of the old town, with its stone keep rising high above the Rhine River. The preserved tower with its open observation deck allows views across the river to both sides of this border town.

The castle was founded in the early 13th century and stood under Austrian rule for centuries before Napoleon took control. The division of the town between Switzerland and Germany followed from this period and continues to define the place today.

The ruin is recognized as a cultural property of national importance and displays medieval construction that still shapes how the town appears today. Visitors can observe how the stone structures dominate the settlement below and reflect the historical role of the location.

The ruin is easily reached from the town center and the path up is well marked and manageable. The tower is open to visitors, and the observation terrace gives special views over the surrounding area and both sides of the divided town.

The tower was only opened to the public in 2007 and stands as one of the few points where you can see both the German and Swiss sides at the same time. This viewpoint reveals the unusual nature of this geographically split city in a compelling way.

Location: Laufenburg

Part of: list of cultural properties in Laufenburg

Address: Burgmattstrasse 5.1, 5080 Laufenburg

GPS coordinates: 47.56158,8.06087

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:21