Urstein Castle

The first mention of Urstein Castle, possibly then known as "Rachinstein," appears in the chronicles of St. Gallen Abbey around 1080. It was built by Abbot Ulrich II of Eppenstein during the Investiture Controversy to protect monastic properties. In the 13th century, a noble family named after the castle emerged, including Bertha and Rudolf von Urstein. Rudolf von Rorschach, the lord of Urstein Castle, was affected by political upheavals at St. Gallen Abbey when Count Rudolf von Habsburg recommended in 1272 that monastic fiefs be reallocated to nobles loyal to the Habsburgs. Around 1275, Urstein Castle was destroyed during conflicts and subsequently disappeared from written records. However, archaeological excavations between 1970 and 1976 demonstrated that the castle was still inhabited in the 14th century. The exact reason for its final abandonment is unknown; possible causes include destruction by the rebellious Appenzellers in the early 15th century or abandonment due to landslides. The visible sandstone ashlar wall remnants today date from the 13th century.