Unspunnen Castle, Interlaken (must see)

Unspunnen Castle, now a picturesque ruin, is nestled in the municipality of Wilderswil, overlooking the scenic city of Interlaken in the Bernese Highlands of Switzerland. Likely constructed in the early 12th century, the castle once stood as a key defensive structure and symbol of power in the region.

Historically, Unspunnen Castle played a crucial role in guarding the medieval Lütschinen Bridge near Interlaken, alongside its nearby counterpart, Rotenfluh Castle. Both castles were pivotal in the defense and control of the area during the 13th and 14th centuries. While the original builders and early owners of Unspunnen remain unknown, it came under the ownership of Burkart of Thun in 1224 through his marriage to the Baron of Wädenswil family. Later, due to a division of inheritance, Unspunnen Castle was split from Rotenfluh and was granted to the Baron of Eschenbach.

Unspunnen Castle’s history is marked by shifting control due to political and military conflicts. After Albert I of Germany's assassination in 1308, the Habsburgs took over the Eschenbach lands, including the castle. Bern besieged it in 1334 and gradually acquired it after the Battle of Sempach in 1386, finally securing full ownership by 1529 after buying out several noble families.

Unspunnen Castle was allowed to fall into disrepair after the Bernese authorities transferred the lands to the administration of Interlaken in 1762. Despite its decline, the castle experienced a revival of interest with the inauguration of the Unspunnenfest in 1805, a festival celebrating traditional Swiss sports and cultural competitions held in the fields below the ruins. The festival’s popularity led to periodic repairs and clean-up efforts to preserve what remained of the structure.

Today, Unspunnen Castle stands as a symbol of the region’s medieval history and cultural heritage, drawing visitors not only for its historical significance but also as the venue for the iconic Unspunnenfest, which continues to celebrate Swiss traditions against the backdrop of these evocative ruins.