Burgruine Jagdberg

Burg Jagdberg stands as the ruins of a medieval hilltop castle above Schlins in Vorarlberg. Built in the 12th century, it once commanded the Vorderer Walgau for the Counts of Montfort-Feldkirch. The Habsburgs took control in 1397, but in 1405 advancing troops burned it during the Appenzell War. Rebuilt by 1408, it suffered further fires in 1440 and 1499 during the Engadine War. Restoration began again in 1559 and continued through later centuries.

The castle’s chapel of Saint Michael once stood on the north side of the ring wall. After it was demolished in 1791, usable material was moved to Schlins parish church following a village fire around 1700. Major restorations took place in 1911, between 1938 and 1941, and from 1951 to 1953. Since 1949 the inner hall has served as an open-air stage.

Visitors today walk among grass-grown foundations and low curtain walls. The site offers sweeping views over the Walgau valley and the surrounding Alps. The open-air stage in the former great hall hosts summer performances. Interpretive signs explain the castle’s layered history. The quiet hilltop remains a place to sense the power once held by the Counts of Montfort.