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About this place
Burgstelle Sellenbüren (Ofengüpf) is the site of a medieval castle in the municipality of Stallikon, canton of Zurich. Hidden in woodland on the slope of the Uetliberg–Albis ridge, it suits visitors who like to read history from the terrain itself rather than from a museum display.
What is this place?
The site occupies a spur called Ofengüpf, to the southwest and below the Uetliburg. Swiss castle documentation (Burgenwelt) describes a modest fortress from the 11th century, built by the lords of Sellenbüren. The Historical Lexicon of Switzerland (HLS) calls it a medieval timber castle above the village of Sellenbüren.
Who were the lords of Sellenbüren?
The noble family took its name from this place. According to the HLS, its main seat was the nearby Uetliburg, while Sellenbüren served as a secondary castle built in the 11th century. Two theories exist on the family's origins; one of them links it to the circle of the barons of Regensberg. Over time, the family's property and rights passed to monasteries.
What will you see?
Do not expect walls or towers. What remains is mostly earthwork: ditches and two level plateaus where the buildings once stood. Archaeological excavations uncovered wall foundations and a cistern, but neither is visible at the surface today. A visit is a woodland walk with a sense of place, not a ruin tour.
How do you get there?
The site lies near the village of Sellenbüren in Stallikon. A steep forest path leads up from the edge of the village. Coordinates are roughly 47.3448 N, 8.4867 E. Wear shoes with good grip, as the wooded slope can be slippery after rain. You can combine the walk with other spots along the Uetliberg–Albis ridge.
When should you go?
Choose a dry day between spring and autumn. With bare branches the ditches and plateaus are easier to make out. There are no visitor facilities, so plan a short outing without services.
Where can you read more?
Bernhard Schneider's book "Die Geschichte von Stallikon" has a chapter on the site's topography and excavation. The HLS has an entry on the Sellenbüren noble family.
Frequently asked questions
Does the castle still stand?
No. Only the ditches and two plateaus survive. The foundations and cistern found by archaeologists can no longer be seen.
When was it built?
In the 11th century.
Was it the family's main seat?
No. The main seat is held to be the Uetliburg; Sellenbüren was a secondary castle.
Is the walk difficult?
The path from the village edge is steep and wooded, but short. Sturdy walking shoes are enough.
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