The location of the Häggenschwil castle ruins was carefully chosen: to the north and west it is protected by the Bachtobel and the Sitter, and to the east by three ditches. Far away from the road and the village, the only sounds you can hear are the rushing of the river, the babbling of the stream, cowbells and the twittering of birds. The walls, located high above the Sitter, are an ideal backdrop for band photos or similar.
Story
Ramschwag Castle was probably built in 1176, but the exact dates are unknown. The Lords of Ramschwag were in the service of the Abbot of St. Gallen and the Habsburgs.
Later, through marriage, Alt-Ramschwag came into the possession of Rudolf von Rosenberg, who eventually sold the castle to Ulrich and Burkard von Helmsdorf (southern German nobles) in 1427. However, the complex only remained in their possession until 1490: At that time, Ramschwag was abandoned because the southern part of the fortress collapsed into the Sitter. The farmer Hans Rudolf Koller became the new and last private owner of the ruins and removed all the woodwork for sale.
As early as 1932, Ramschwag was secured by the Swiss Castle Association.
Directions/Location
The castle ruins are located in Häggenschwil SG, on the “spur” above a steep cliff on the right bank of the Sitter.
From St. Gallen, drive via Wittenbach towards Häggenschwil. In Häggenschwil itself, follow the brown signpost "Route Doreen". Park at the "Flurhof" farm, follow the field path to the left, then right and finally follow the path with the sign prohibiting horse riding (keep right). After a few steps, the ruins appear between trees and bushes.
Access
Access possible at any time.
