Hohen Rätien castle complex

Neither a fortress nor a noble castle. What is it then? Hoher Rätien has been a mystery for centuries. Situated on an imposing rock above the entrance to the Viamala Gorge, it is one of the oldest settlements still in use in Switzerland - an extraordinary cultural asset in Graubünden with an eventful history of over 4000 years.

Pilgrims, traders and muleteers passed through high Rhaetia, in the middle of the flow of traffic over the Alpine passes, where they found a safe place to tranship goods and a muleteer's hostel. In late antiquity, the first Christians built their baptistery on the site of an ancient place of worship, with a baptismal font (5th century), which has been preserved in the baptistery and can be visited. The parish church of St. Johann & Viktor, the former center of the large parish of "Hoch Rialt", was subsequently built.

Extensive meadows, the mighty old trees on the grounds and the babbling fountain by the Hoch Rialt tower invite visitors to linger. The view over the Domleschg valley and into the Viamala is incomparable.

A family foundation - owner of the complex since 1472 - still ensures the preservation of these fascinating witnesses of times long past.

With your smartphone or tablet, you have access to an audiovisual guide with important information about the history of the site.

Hohen Rätien lies on the re-established viaSpluga long-distance hiking trail.

Access
Hohen Rätien is located on a rocky plateau and is open to the public for an entrance fee. Reachable on foot in approx. 35 minutes from the Domleschg castle trail.