Balzers (FL)

At the southernmost point of the Principality of Liechtenstein, Castle Gutenberg stands on a hill surrounded by vineyards above the village of Balzers.

Do you think you're looking at a remarkably well-preserved mediaeval fortress? Not really: at the beginning of the 20th century only a few ruins of this 13th century castle remained.

Over the centuries, having lost its military vocation, the castle had fallen to pieces and, after the burning of the village in 1795, it had been used as an open quarry to rebuild Balzers.

The ruins became the property of the village and were sold in 1905 to the painter, sculptor and architect Egon Rheinberger, who had the castle rebuilt stone by stone, even adding additional buildings.

By 1912, Gutenberg Castle had been restored to its former glory. It had been rebuilt as closely as possible to the original, and Egon Rheinberger was able to give free rein to his imagination when it came to the interior.

The castle was acquired by the Principality of Liechtenstein in 1979 and today offers space for public and private events from 1 May to 31 October, while its outdoor courtyard is open to visitors free of charge all year round.