Ever wondered about a place where ancient history whispers on the wind? That place is Mals. Mals is a former hamlet of Liechtenstein. It is nestled within the municipality of Balzers. Let’s step back in time and uncover the layers of history that define Mals.
Mals sits contiguously with Balzers. It lies near the Rhine River and the Swiss border. Gutenberg Castle stands proudly on a rocky hill between Balzers and Mals. This location has shaped Mals’s story for centuries.
Archaeological finds near Gutenberg Castle show continuous settlement since 3000 BC. The “Rössener culture” discovery was the most southerly of its kind. Bronze Age remains were also found. The bronze figures of Mars, a boar, deer, and fertility figures hold significant historical importance.
Roman buildings were found in the northern part of Mals. Sixty Roman coins dating from 46-42 BC suggest Roman rule. Mals is the older part of the twin villages of Balzers and Mals. “Meilis” is the Rätic name for Mals but its etymology remains a mystery. Balzers, however, links to the Latin “palatium,” meaning Lordship.
From 15 BC the Romans subjected the Raetians to the “Imperium Romanum”. A road led across the alpine Julier and Spluegen passes. It ran along the mountain slope through Mals shaping its history.
Balzers experienced rapid development. It industrialized while caring for its environment.
The coat of arms of Balzers originates from the barons von Frauenberg. They were Knights of Gutenberg Castle around 1300 AD. Heinrich von Frauenberg, a Minnesaenger, is particularly noted. The coat of arms displays a golden griffin in a blue field.
“Balzner” refers to the southeastern part of the village. This area sells wine directly. “Schloss Gutenberg” and Malsner wine are cultivated at the foot of Gutenberg. The grape is Blaue Burgunder.
Today Mals retains its charm. It stands as a testament to Liechtenstein’s rich past. As you stand here imagine the echoes of ancient settlers. Hear the Roman soldiers marching. Feel the presence of knights. Mals is more than just a location. It’s a living story etched into the landscape.