Ruine Tosters

Gazing up at Ruine Tosters, did you ever imagine it as a bustling fortress? Ruine Tosters stands as a proud testament to Liechtenstein’s rich history. This isn’t just a pile of old stones. It’s a window into a time of knights, counts, and epic battles. Ruine Tosters was built around 1260 by the Counts of Montfort. A branch of the family even called this place home. Around 1331, Count Hugo VII inherited the castle and the surrounding lands. But paradise didn’t last forever. During the Appenzeller War in 1405, the castle was attacked and captured. The citizens of Feldkirch, allied with the Appenzellers, stormed Ruine Tosters on November 25th. Fire ravaged the structure, leaving only the tower standing. Rebuilding efforts began after 1408, breathing new life into the battered fortress. In the early 1500s, the main gate was moved. Part of the ring wall was removed and a smaller, recessed gate was constructed in the south wall. The old gate once provided access via a wooden bridge spanning a wide moat. Sadly, by 1616, Ruine Tosters fell into disrepair. The tower was restored in 1838, a beacon of hope amidst the decay. Later, from 1974 to 1980, a complete restoration of the remaining walls took place. Today, the ruins of the keep, parts of the palace, and sections of the outer wall still stand. They offer a glimpse into the castle’s former glory and invite exploration. They are a popular destination for visitors seeking to connect with Liechtenstein’s past.