There are a lot of well-preserved buildings and landmarks to see in Stein am Rhein, one of the highlights is Hohenklingen Castle.
Sitting proudly on a hilltop above the town, 590m above sea level, Hohenklingen Castle offers stunning views of the town below. It also allows you to see the Rhine River making its way to Lake Constance and far into the distant countryside.
The Castle History
Starting way back in 1200, the beginnings of the Hohenklingen Castle were laid. First came a residential tower on the site, which was erected by Walter von Klingen. He was the Baliff of the local monastery at the time.
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The castle was added to with both a ring wall and a palace two decades later in 1220. And then, between 1250 and 1280 it was further extended with a gate, a keep and additions to the Palas. Various other changes and additions were made throughout the 14th and 15th centuries as well. And in 1460 a guard room and holding cell, as well the firearm battlements for firearms were created.
The castle played a key role in protecting the town of Stein am Rhein during both the Swabian war (1499) and the Thirty Years’ war in the 17th century. However, it later lost its significance as a fortress. Although, it was used as a military outpost during the second world war, which is not a surprise given its proximity to Germany and the border.
The city of Stein am Rhein later took possession of the building and undertook extensive renovations between 1895 to 1897. Further renovations were done between 2005 and 2007 to bring the castle up to date and make things more accessible with the addition of a lift.
