The Schenkenberg castle ruins above Thalheim were the seat of various noble families from the 13th century onwards. The first mention goes back to the year 1243. The castle was initially owned by a servant of the Habsburgs and then passed to Albrecht von Schenkenberg, who is considered the illegitimate son of King Rudolf of Habsburg. The castle was later owned by the Lords of Schönau. In the 15th century the castle was occupied by the Bernese and became the administrative centre of the Schenkenberg bailiwick.
In the early 18th century the castle was abandoned and left to decay.
Today, the castle, with its intricate ruins, is a beautiful sight. The surrounding Aargau Jura also appears idyllic and calming.
Directions
The castle is best reached by car. From Thalheim, a narrow road leads towards Zeihen. After about a third of the way, you continue on foot towards the ruins. It takes around 20 minutes to reach them.
