Schlössli Altenburg
Situated on the River Aare between Habsburg and the Brugg, Altenburg is a romantic little castle with a long and mysterious history. Whether you are interested in the Romans or the Habsburgs, want a place to picnic on the river, or need an inexpensive place to sleep, Schlössli Altenburg is worth a visit.
Is this really where the Habsburg family lived before they were know by the name "Habsburg"? Is this the Altenburg Estate where Radbot and Ita lived while Schloss Habichtsburg was being built?
While no documentary evidence exists linking the early Habsburgs to Altenburg near Brugg at the start of the last millennium, nor to the existence of a suspected one-time bishop’s residence, you will find many online sources claiming it's certainty. The first connection between the Habsburgs and this site was made in the mid 17th century by the chronicler Matthäus Merian. Further studies in the late 19th century by Father Martin Kiem from Muri Monastry attributed the documented surname of the early Habsburger “Kanzellin of Altenburg” to the Altenburg near Brugg. As one of Altenburg’s two known coats of arms depicts a red lion wearing a crown, there is speculation that it might be true... or at least plausible.
(The previous paragraph is adapted from text found in the Jugendherberge Brugg Brochure; the following text is directly copied.) << The building which is today home to the youth hostel probably dates only from the 16th century. It is known as the “Schlösschen” or “Little Castle” on account of its dwelling-tower-like shape and two crow-step gables. On the first two floors, the Roman wall makes up the western side. In 1938, the “Pro Vindonissa” association and the Aargau Historical Association acquired the disused buildings and had them converted into a youth hostel. After a delay caused by the war, the “Schlössli Altenburg” was able to open as a youth hostel in 1941. >>
Hostel Operation: 2010 14 March - 11 October
2011 Not yet posted
Fees: Please see the hostel's website for more information regarding room and board.
Contact Info: Jugendherberge Brugg
Schlössli Altenburg, im Hof 11
5200 Brugg
Tel 056 441 10 20
Fax 056 442 38 20
http://www.youthhostel.ch/brugg
By train:20 minutes' walk from Brugg railway station.
By car: parking spaces are available in the car park for the indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
By bicycle: The youth hostel is situated on the velo route Nr. 5 and 8
Click the link below the map for a bird's eye view of Altenburg and other historic sites in the area.
For informational purposes only. I am not responsible for any losses incurred during the use of this info. Always contact our destination directly to confirm opening hours and admission fees. Sites may close for special events and renovations or charge additional fees for entrance to exhibitions.