Hidden away on a path near Teufen-Freienstein in the direction of Berg am Irchel and Hochwacht is the Bruder Lienert Cave, which is the subject of many different myths and legends. But true history has also taken place in the cave, as can be seen from the numerous Celtic finds.
Two brothers
The Lienert brothers are said to have lost all their possessions and their farm in a famine after a few bad years. They are said to have lived in the cave after that. Because they were so hungry, they got into a fight over a mouse and beat each other to death.
Leonhard's monks
A second story suggests that the name refers to the Order of St. Leonard. At the end of the 11th century, one or more St. Leonard monks are said to have lived in the Nagelfluh Cave.
Barons of Teufen
It is highly likely that the Barons of Teufen took part in the Crusades to the Holy Land. Possibly also in the Crusade of King Richard the Lionheart. The nobles needed servants to drive carts and warhorses. It is possible that after their return home these farmers were named after Lionheart and that they lived in this cave during a transitional period. There is a corresponding legend about refugees from the entourage of Richard the Lionheart and the name "Lienhard".
Access
From the Teufen sand pit, walk up the mountain towards Hochwacht. The cave is halfway there on the right-hand side of the path.
