Grimmenstein Castle (Ruin) (Wynigen)

The Grimmenstein ruin dates from the 13th century and is located in the Swiss municipality of Wynigen in the canton of Bern. The castle is situated east of Wynigen on a rocky ridge above the Kappelenbach stream.

In the center of the complex lies a massive, 30 m high castle mound, on which a stone defensive tower (6 × 8 m) must have stood. The castle was protected by a main rampart, an outwork, and a ditch on the access side.

Today, some wall remains and the rampart system are still clearly visible.

In the immediate vicinity lies the ruin of Friesenberg Castle.

The castle was the ancestral seat of the Lords of Grimmenstein, who are documented between 1271 and 1381 and served the Kyburgers. Grimmenstein served to control and protect the high road between Willisau and the Emmental.

In 1383, the castle was besieged by the Bernese during the Burgdorf War. Lord of the castle Petermann von Rohrmoos surrendered Grimmenstein to the Bernese, received Bernese citizenship, and in return received the castle as a fief.

In 1402, the Kyburgers had to sell the castle to Petermann von Rohrmoos due to financial reasons.

In 1406, the Landgraviate of Burgundy came under Bernese control, and with it Grimmenstein Castle.

In 1497, the Bernese bought all rights to the castle and incorporated it into the Burgdorf district. Wynigen came under the administration of the Burgdorf district in 1502.

Thereafter, the castle fell into disrepair.