The remains of the Castle can be visited
DANGEROUS!
CastleDornach
Hilsenstein Castle (Ruin) (Dornach)
The Hilsenstein Ruin, sometimes also called Hilzenstein or Hülzistein, is a little-known but historically significant castle complex in Switzerland. It is located on a prominent rock pinnacle on the western slope of the Gempen Plateau, southeast of Dornach in the canton of Solothurn. Despite its low profile, it offers fascinating insights into a bygone era.
History+
Although Hilsenstein Castle is not mentioned in historical documents, archaeological finds attest to an intensive, albeit brief, settlement in the third quarter of the 13th century. This use ended around 1300. It is presumed that a branch of the knightly family Münch, also known as “Gempener” in the late 13th century, were the builders and owners of this complex.
Location+
The Hilsenstein Ruin is situated at approximately 626 m above sea level in the municipality of Dornach, Dorneck district, canton of Solothurn, Switzerland. It perches on a rock spur on the western slope of the Gempen Plateau.
On site+
Today, only a few wall remnants of Hilsenstein Castle remain on the difficult-to-access rock head. The ruin can be visited, but caution is advised as the ascent can be dangerous. The complex extended over several areas of the rock head, with the residential tower standing on the uppermost level. Carved beam holes and door grooves still bear witness to the former construction.
Nearby+
- Dorneck Ruin (Dornach) (Castle), approx. 1.4 km away
- Angenstein Castle (Castle), approx. 2.4 km away
- Birseck Castle (Castle), approx. 2.7 km away
- Aesch Castle (Castle), approx. 2.8 km away
Take Mobile History with you
You are reading this text for free. Premium adds what matters on the road: descriptions read aloud, sites found through your camera, whole regions taken offline.
- Every description, including the ~17,700 Premium sites
- Audio guide: have descriptions read to you on location
- AR finder: see sites through your camera, with distance and bearing
- Unlimited saved sites
14 days free, then from €2.99 a month. Cancel anytime.
Source: Wikipedia · Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0
This description draws on the facts documented in the linked Wikipedia article; Wikipedia content is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Wording and editing: Mobile History.
Location: 47.4685, 7.6355