One of the most beautiful castles in the canton of Solothurn rises east of St. Wolfgang near Balsthal on the Klus at the entrance to the Jura. It's not just the breathtaking view from the tower out into the Jura valleys that makes the steep climb worth it. The castle complex itself is also spectacular.
The castle is surrounded by various obstacles to approach and a moat. The main tower towers far above the rest of the complex and was probably a keep. Various residential buildings and farm buildings as well as a chapel were built around the tower. The first buildings date from the 11th century, while the last buildings were built around 1640. This means that the castle is probably older than the Alt-Frankenstein castle on the other side of the valley. The name probably comes from the fact that the castle had to be almost completely rebuilt during the great earthquake around Basel in 1356.
The castle became notorious for a completely different reason. The Basel bishop Johann von Vienne called in the help of the castle owners of Bechburg during a war. However, he failed to pay any compensation. As an act of revenge, the castle owners attacked a transport of Basel merchants near St. Wolfgang and stole a large amount of saffron. The castle was then besieged, captured after a stubborn defense and partially destroyed. Some of the saffron went to the victors, while the merchants received the rest. The castle owners, on the other hand, were ordered to pay high reparations, but at the same time received compensation for their previous claims.
Location and directions
If you leave the A1 in Oensingen towards Balsthal, drive through the village of Balsthal towards Mümliswil. At the bend near the Pintli restaurant, the climb begins along a forest path with steep steps. To get to the top, simply follow the sign behind the restaurant. After about a kilometer of climbing, you reach the castle complex.
If castle lovers are already in the region, there are numerous other sites that offer the opportunity for excursions. It is also worth visiting the Thal Nature Park, where exciting themed trails can be explored.
opening hours
The facility is open all year round. Quiet hours apply after 10pm.
