Schaffhausen

Schaffhausen

City of 171 bay windows

Schaffhausen

Schaffhausen is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Switzerland. Strolling through the car-free old town, one immediately feels transported to earlier times. Pretty town houses present themselves with richly painted facades. As many as 171 enchanting bay windows characterize the picturesque image of the town on the High Rhine. And the Munot fortress high up on the Emmersberg hill also attracts attention.

The special location on the Rhine - it was wider and flatter at that time - led around the year 1000 to Schaffhausen developing into a trans-shipment center for goods. The town of Scafhusun was first mentioned in 1045 with the granting of the right to mint coins. Soon the monastery of Allerheiligen was founded. Soon the monastery of Allerheiligen was founded and a changeful town history followed. Today, Schaffhausen is the capital of the canton of the same name.

The city, which has a population of around 37,500, is located a few kilometers from the Lake Constance Cycle Path, but is one of the most popular destinations in the Lake Constance region. Schaffhausen is worthwhile for a day trip as well as for a longer stay. In addition to the nearby Rhine Falls and the old town, which is well worth seeing, there are numerous leisure activities such as biking and hiking tours into the hill country of Randen, into the vineyards of Klettgau and along the Rhine - suitable for every fitness level. Or how about a boat trip through one of Europe's most beautiful river landscapes toward Lake Constance?

Sights

Schaffhausen - Munot Fortress
Munot Fortress

Mark of the city! For 400 years now, the fortress has been enthroned above the city and already shapes the image of Schaffhausen from afar. Today, the Munot serves as a venue for events, but the generally accessible areas can be visited during the day - including views of the city and the Rhine. A special feature: Since 1589, the Munot bell has been rung every evening at 9 p.m. for five minutes, still by hand.

All Saints' Monastery

One of the best preserved Romanesque monastery complexes in Switzerland! The foundation of the former Benedictine abbey dates back to the 11th century. Since 1524 it has served as a parish church. The buildings of the former monastery house the Museum zu Allerheiligen. It provides insights into the past of the complex and the town of Schaffhausen.