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About this place
Schleifenrain is a medieval castle ruin in the municipality of Kemmental, canton of Thurgau, in north-eastern Switzerland. Mostly foundations remain, and the site makes a quiet destination for a short walk through woods and ravines.
What is Schleifenrain?
It is a hilltop castle that sources date to the 12th century. The mound is encircled by the steep ravines of the Kemmenbach and a second, smaller stream. These gullies provided natural protection, so the builders did not need heavy fortifications on those sides. The ruin sits at roughly 480 metres above sea level.
Who lived here?
The owners are not firmly established. Local hiking guides point to the lords of Hugelshofen, ministerials in the service of the Bishop of Constance. According to those guides, the family died out in the 15th century. With few reliable records, the castle's story remains largely open.
What can you see?
Archaeological excavations in the 1960s uncovered the foundations of a tower and an adjoining annex. The wall remnants were conserved after the digs, so you can make out the outline of the former buildings. Steps lead up the mound. It is a small, intimate site with no large-scale visitor facilities.
The treasure legend
A local tale is attached to the place. It tells of a treasure buried in the mound, an indebted farmer and a dwarf. Stories like this often grew around abandoned castles and add a touch of folklore to the outing.
Heritage protection
The ruin is listed in the Swiss inventory of cultural property as a class B object of regional significance (inventory number 07112). Please treat it with care: do not climb the walls and do not take away any finds.
Getting there
The ruin lies on hiking routes, including the Schwabenweg, and Altenklingen Castle is nearby. A popular walk links the two. Sonterswil is the village in the area, while neighbouring Hugelshofen is tied to the history of the castle's lords.
Frequently asked questions
Is Schleifenrain a complete castle? No. It is a ruin where mainly the foundations of a tower and an annex survive.
What period is it from? Sources date it to the 12th century.
Is there an entrance fee? Sources mention no fees: it is an open site beside a trail. Still, check current local information before you go.
What else is nearby? Altenklingen Castle, reached by a popular walking route.
Why is the ruin protected? As class B cultural property it is of regional importance for Thurgau.
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