Landenberg shooting and armory house, Castle and armory in Sarnen, Switzerland
Landenberg is a fortified structure on a hill in Sarnen that combines medieval castle ruins with a solid 18th-century stone building designed for military storage. The complex displays thick defensive walls and a layout that reflects its dual purpose across different historical periods.
The Counts of Lenzburg built an early wooden fortification on the Landenberg hill in the early 11th century, later replaced by Habsburg stone fortifications. In the early 18th century, a new armory building was constructed that modernized the defensive facility and transformed the site into an administrative and storage center.
The site hosted the Landsgemeinde, Obwalden's cantonal assembly, shaping the region's political life through this direct form of citizen participation that took place here for generations.
The site sits on an elevated point within the town and is easily accessible on foot with clear pathways and signs from the town center. Visitors should note that some interior areas may have limited access hours, so checking ahead is advisable.
The armory was built in 1711 following designs by architect Hans Josef von Flüe and ranks among the few fully intact armories in central Switzerland. With its original storage systems for cannons and small arms, it offers a rare glimpse into the military infrastructure of the early 18th century.
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