Neu-Schauenburg Castle, Medieval castle ruin in Frenkendorf, Switzerland
Neu-Schauenburg is a castle ruin perched on a rocky outcrop in Frenkendorf at approximately 640 meters elevation, featuring preserved stone walls and a gate structure on the northern side. The site is accessed via a ramp from the west that curves around the northern corner to reach the entrance area on the northeastern side.
The castle was constructed in the 12th century and suffered damage during the 1356 Basel earthquake but was rebuilt afterward, unlike its neighboring Alt-Schauenburg Castle. After the original noble family declined, the site continued to be used for different purposes throughout later periods.
The castle reflects medieval building practices with stone walls and towers that show how nobility lived during that era. Walking through the ruins today, you can sense the daily routines and social structures that once existed within these walls.
The climb to the castle is fairly short and manageable, with the ramp providing safe access to the site even though the ground can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is recommended as you navigate around stones and rough surfaces.
A community of Beguine sisters occupied the ruins from 1480 to 1523 after the original noble family had departed from the site. This religious women's community gave the abandoned fortress a fresh purpose before eventually moving on.
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