Rappenstein Castle

Rappenstein Castle near Untervaz is a medieval cave castle in ruins, set in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. Its walls fill a narrow rock cleft in the Valcosenz valley, west of the village, at roughly 1,058 m above sea level. Entry is free and the site can be visited year-round.

What kind of castle is Rappenstein?

Rappenstein belongs to the uncommon family of cave castles. Masonry was built into a natural rock recess, and the cliff itself forms part of the walls and roof. The setting offered shelter from weather and attackers but very little room. Researchers therefore think it was not a permanent home but a refuge in times of danger.

Who built it, and when?

The ruins are usually dated to around 1250. A timber beam from the structure was tested by dendrochronology, the analysis of tree rings, and came out at 1255. The castle's original name is lost. One theory credits the Tumb von Neuburg knights from Vorarlberg, but that remains a hypothesis rather than a documented fact.

The name Rappenstein appears in connection with later owners. Around 1450 the Mötteli family, also called Mötteli von Rappenstein and linked to a castle of the same name near St. Gallen, acquired it. In 1496 the Bishopric of Chur bought the site. It was later abandoned and fell into decay.

How do you get to the ruins?

By car, take the A13 motorway to the Zizers exit and continue towards Untervaz. The walk starts around Bachtobel in Untervaz (postcode 7204) and takes about two hours to the ruins. The path was restored in the 1990s, but it is still a mountain trail, so wear sturdy footwear.

What will you see?

• masonry set into the rock cleft, typical of a cave castle,
• views over the Valcosenz valley and the surrounding cliffs,
• remains of former buildings along the rock face.

Other castle ruins around Untervaz are mentioned by the municipality, so the hike fits well with a short look at the village's history. Plan the trip for the warm months, when the trail is dry. In winter, conditions depend on snow and ice.

When should you go?

The ruin is open all year, with no tickets or opening hours. Late spring to autumn is the most comfortable season. Start in the morning so you are back before dark, and carry water, because there are no shops along the route.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee for Rappenstein Castle? No. Access and visiting are free.

How long is the walk? Graubünden tourism information gives about two hours one way from the Untervaz area.

When was it built? In the 13th century. Dating of the timber points to around 1250 to 1255.

Did people live here permanently? Researchers think not. The small space inside the rock recess points to use as a wartime refuge.

Who owned it after 1496? The Bishopric of Chur bought it in 1496. It was later abandoned and decayed.