Vaduz Castle

Count Hugo von Montfort, who also owned the counties of Werdenberg and Sargans, appeared in Vaduz around the year 1200. The first Vaduz Castle was probably built under him or one of his successors. The residential tower dates from 1287. The castle is first mentioned in 1322. In 1338, Count Ulrich II of Montfort-Feldkirch receives the castle as a gift. On May 3, 1342, Count Hartmann III of Werdenberg-Sargans receives the castle and the area as part of an inheritance. As Count Hartmann I of Vaduz, he takes up residence in his castle and names his line after the seat of power. From 1416 to 1510, Vaduz Castle and lordship are owned by the Barons of Brandis. In 1499, the Confederates sacked Vaduz Castle during the Swabian War. 1510 to 1613 the Counts of Sulz are the owners. They had the castle restored, extended and improved in terms of fortifications. Construction of the castle chapel after 1499 in place of an older service and dining room. Palas with blind arcades 1528, south roundel 1523, north roundel 1528/29, "Beautiful Hall" with Renaissance paintings around 1540. 1613 to 1712, the current owners, the Counts of Hohenems, completed the castle. Baroque garden 1642. Since 1712 the castle has been owned by the Princes of Liechtenstein. From 1712 to 1732, now called Hohenliechtenstein, it serves as the seat of the bailiwick with official residence in the west wing. Around 1840, Prince Alois II considered having the partially dilapidated castle converted into a residence, but the project was abandoned. In 1896/97, the Viennese architect and head of the princely building office Gustav Ritter von Neumann carried out repairs. Prince Johann II undertakes a thorough restoration in 1904-12. Prince Franz Josef II had the aristocratic residence renovated and took up residence there with his family in 1938. Since then, Vaduz Castle has been the permanent residence of the princely family.

KDM II, PP. 252-274.