# Obere Burg

- **Country:** Liechtenstein
- **Coordinates:** 47.232900, 9.554200
- **Location Text:** (), in Schellenberg

Obere Burg, also known colloquially as Burg Neu-Schellenberg, is a historic castle ruin situated in the municipality of Schellenberg, Liechtenstein. Constructed around the year 1200, this medieval structure represents one of the five existing castles in the principality and is specifically noted as the larger and older of the two ruined fortifications within Schellenberg. The site first appeared in written historical records on January 10, 1348, marking its significance during the early medieval period. Architecturally, it served as a defensive residence typical of the era, though specific stylistic details are obscured by its current state as a ruin.

The castle functioned as an inhabited residence until approximately the 16th century, after which it was abandoned and gradually lost its military utility, eventually succumbing to nature and becoming heavily overgrown. In a pivotal moment for its preservation, Prince Franz Joseph II transferred ownership of the site to the Historical Association of the Principality of Liechtenstein in 1956. This organization currently owns and cares for the property, overseeing ongoing research, upkeep, and preservation efforts to maintain the historical integrity of the ruins for future generations.

Today, Obere Burg stands as an accessible landmark for visitors and history enthusiasts. Located at the western edge of the Hinterschloss borough in Neu-Schellenberg, it is considered the most easily accessible of all castles in Liechtenstein due to its close proximity to the village. The site is freely open to tourists, offering a tangible connection to the region's medieval past without entry restrictions. As one of only three ruined castles remaining in the country, it serves as an important cultural site that highlights the architectural and military history of the Alpine region.

![Photo of Obere Burg](http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Obere%20Burg%20Schellenberg1.JPG)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obere_Burg (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)