Burg Gutenberg: A Princely Fortress

Burg Gutenberg, rising 70 meters above Balzers, is one of Liechtenstein's five castles and among the two that remain intact. Its story began as a medieval church and cemetery in the early 12th century. Fortifications began when the cemetery was removed, and a circular wall was added. Throughout the 12th century, the castle expanded, including the main tower. The Lords of Frauenberg owned it during the 12th and 13th centuries. In 1314, it became property of the House of Habsburg and was used to guard the border between Habsburg and Swiss territories. Extensive renovations occurred around 1500, commissioned by Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I. No longer used for military purposes in the 17th and 18th centuries, the castle suffered damage from fires. After a fire in 1795, it was used as a quarry to rebuild Balzers. In 1824, the town purchased and repaired the castle, later selling it to Princess Franziska of Liechtenstein in 1854. Vaduz-born architect Egon Rheinberger oversaw significant restoration between 1905 and 1912. Today, the castle is open to the public, with the bailey accessible year-round. The chapel and rose garden are open on Sundays from May 1 to October 31. Guided tours are available by appointment.