Radegg – medieval castle ruins in the canton of Schaffhausen

Radegg is a ruined medieval castle on a rocky spur above the Wangental valley, in the Osterfingen area of the municipality of Wilchingen in the Swiss canton of Schaffhausen. It is a small fortress from the age of great forest clearing, and today it makes a quiet destination for walkers in northern Switzerland.

What is the history of Radegg castle?

The castle was built around 1200 and destroyed around 1300. It is thought to have been the seat of the Freiherren von Radegg in the 13th century, although written sources are thin and the exact origins remain uncertain. The family died out in 1333, which closes the chapter on their link to the site.

Radegg belongs to the group of small castles raised while the surrounding woodland was being cleared and settled. Strongholds like this served as the home of a local noble family and a point from which to watch over the area, and they were modest in size compared with grand princely castles.

What did the excavations reveal?

An archaeological dig in 1937 turned up arrowheads and traces of fire. These finds suggest the castle came to a violent end in the 14th century, probably through fighting and burning. The local legend likewise ends with the fortress being destroyed.

The ruins today

In August 2017 the cantonal archaeology office led a clean-up in which vegetation was cleared so that the medieval walls are visible again. Documentation of the ruin's condition also began. As a result visitors can see the surviving wall remains more clearly, and the site is better protected against being overgrown.

Fragments of walls survive, along with the outworks mentioned in the site's full name. Keep in mind that this is a ruin rather than a rebuilt castle, so there are no interiors to enter and no museum facilities.

The legend of Kätterli

A popular tale is tied to the ruins, about a woman named Kätterli. Her unfulfilled love is said to leave her restless around the castle. The story adds atmosphere to the place, especially on a walk at dusk or on a misty day.

How do you get to the Radegg ruins?

The easiest starting point is the Osterfingen Lindenhof bus stop. From there a circular route to the ruin takes about 2 hours on foot. The footpath is steep, so sturdy shoes and a reasonable level of fitness are needed. A restaurant at Rossberghof lies along the way and offers a place to rest.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Radegg? On a rocky spur above the Wangental valley, in the Osterfingen area of Wilchingen, canton of Schaffhausen, Switzerland.

When was the castle built? Around 1200, and it was destroyed around 1300.

Is there an entrance fee? The ruin is an open-air site beside a hiking route; the available information mentions no charge.

How long does the walk take? About 2 hours on a circular route from the Osterfingen Lindenhof stop, along a steep path.

Can I get food nearby? Yes, there is a restaurant at Rossberghof along the route.

Who is the walk for? History and castle fans who enjoy forest walks and do not mind an ascent. The ruins combine well with exploring the surrounding hills of the Klettgau region.