The Munot castle stands as a symbol of Schaffhausen perched atop a hill overlooking the town. Constructed in the century this ring shaped stronghold provides an awe inspiring vantage point of both Schaffhausen and the Rhine River.
Munot Fortress
The tower houses the Munot watchwoman’s apartment, who rings the famous Munot bell for five minutes every evening at 9 p.m. – by hand, of course, just like in 1589.
Munot fortress
The Munot fortress towers high above Schaffhausen and is the town’s landmark. From the fortress you can enjoy a fantastic view over the old town and the Rhine. This early modern fortress has a characteristic round shape. It was built between 1564 and 1589 by citizens of Schaffhausen, some of whom worked for the town.
The tower houses the home of the Munot guard. Every evening at 21:00, she rings the Munot bell for five minutes. The famous little bell from 1589 is the subject of a legend and a nationally known song.
Munot Tower
Saga and Swiss folk song
It is believed that the bell, in the Munot tower, in Schaffhausen is rung when the town faces a threat. According to legend a young tower keeper once rang the bell to impress his girlfriend. Soon a tragic fire engulfed the town resulting in loss of lives. Since then the bell is said to be sounded during emergencies its echo resonating through the night. This tale has also inspired the folk song “D’Schifferli und sini Frou.”
Munot to protect the city
Schaffhausen joined the Swiss Confederation in 1501.
After the Reformation, in 1529 the residents of Schaffhausen sought to enhance the towns defenses and construct a landmark. Upon its construction concerns emerged regarding the Munots ability to withstand advancing artillery technology. Despite these doubts the fortress was used for purposes once in 1799 when French forces briefly occupied it during their retreat, from Austrian troops before hastily crossing the Rhine after a minor clash.
Munot from above
Schaffhausen famous for the Rhine Falls and Munot
Schaffhausen is a small town in German-speaking Switzerland with 37,000 inhabitants and borders on Germany. It is known for the world-famous Rhine Falls and the Munot fortress, as well as its rich history and culture. Other sights in Schaffhausen: Vordergasse is the main street in the old town of Schaffhausen. It is lined with historic buildings and beautiful squares and offers many shopping opportunities and restaurants.
Fronwagplatz is centrally located in Schaffhausen’s Old Town and is car-free. There are two colorful fountains on the square, the Landsknechtbrunnen / Metzgerbrunnen and the Mohrenbrunnen. The square is dominated by the Fronwagturm tower. The large market scales used to hang in it. Today it can be admired in the All Saints’ Monastery Museum.
Schaffhausen old town
The impressive astronomical clock created by Joachim Habrecht can be found in the area of the Fronwag tower. It showcases a range of 10 features. Dates back, to the year 1564. The historic Fronwagplatz is adorned with buildings from the 16th century.
Dating back to the century Allerheiligen Abbey stands as a Benedictine abbey that has transformed into a Protestant Reformed parish church today. Constructed in Romanesque architecture it holds a collection of artworks.
Situated at the heart of Schaffhausen, the spacious Herrenacker Platz serves as a hub for happenings and musical performances. Surrounded by structures and picturesque gardens it offers a serene setting, for various events.
These represent a glimpse of the attractions that Schaffhausen boasts. With its heritage and cultural treasures this city provides visitors with an array of engaging activities and sights to explore.
Traditional Munot balls in Schaffhausen
In the century no other city, in the Swiss Confederation could match the grandeur of a building like this. The Munot fortress is surrounded by a mix of modern activities.
The Munot Association, established in 1839 arranges these events. From June to August the classic Munot balls are held on the battlements featuring the quadrille dance since 1886.
Since 1940 there has been a childrens festival, with fireworks and a popular summer open air cinema has been running since 1996. Until 1926 the role of the Munot watchman was essentially that of a reporting station.
Video about Schaffhausen and Munot
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