Schlössli Aarau

Schlössli Aarau, nestled at the northeastern edge of Aarau's old town, is a captivating medieval castle that stands as the oldest surviving building in the city. Built in the 13th century, this historical gem has witnessed centuries of change and continues to enchant visitors with its rich history and architectural charm.

The History of Schlössli Aarau

Schlössli Aarau's origins date back to the late 13th century, coinciding with the founding of Aarau by the Counts of Kyburg. Dendrochronological studies have confirmed its construction during this period, although earlier investigations speculated an 11th-century origin. Following the extinction of the Kyburg dynasty in 1263, the castle and the town of Aarau came under the dominion of the Habsburgs. The first documented mention of Schlössli as the old tower was in 1334, distinguishing it from the slightly younger Rore Tower, now part of the town hall.

Over the centuries, Schlössli Aarau saw a succession of residents, primarily knights, until the mid-16th century. Notable families included the Lords of Kienberg, Heidegg, Sumer, and Luternau. Even after the conquest of Aargau by the Swiss Confederates in 1415, the castle remained a prestigious residence for various Aarau bourgeois families, such as the Schmuziger and Hunziker. In the early 17th century, the castle underwent significant renovations, including the addition of a hipped roof and interior modifications by Bernese fortress builder Valentin Friderich in 1624.

In 1790, silk ribbon manufacturer Johann Rudolf Meyer acquired Schlössli Aarau. He elevated the structure by adding the current top floor and a new roof, along with a staircase on the east side. The castle played a role in Meyer's cartographic ventures and later served as a boarding school for students of the cantonal school, which opened in 1802 in the neighboring Amthaus. In 1808, the castle passed into the hands of the Herosé family and was subsequently purchased by Colonel Emil Rothpletz in 1862. In 1930, Rothpletz's heirs donated the castle to the citizens of Aarau, leading to a thorough renovation in 1931-32 and the establishment of the city museum in 1939.

Exploring Schlössli Aarau

Today, Schlössli Aarau is home to the Aarau City Museum, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the city's history. The museum's permanent exhibition, 100x Aarau, presents 100 stories with over 1,100 objects, providing a comprehensive overview of Aarau's past. The top floor of the tower features a permanent camera obscura installation by Jacqueline Weiss and Kathrin Siebenhaar, offering a unique perspective of the city.

As you wander through the castle, you'll discover the well-preserved medieval residential tower, standing 25 meters high. Constructed from limestone and roughly hewn boulders, the tower's square base measures 11.25 meters on each side. The original masonry remains intact up to a height of 17 meters, with the upper floors featuring late Gothic-style windows on the south wall. The top floor, added in 1790, is capped with a hipped roof.

Adjacent to the north side of the tower is a palace from the late 13th or early 14th century. Its lower floor boasts similarly thick walls as the tower, while the upper floors are notably thinner, topped with a half-hipped roof. The east side of the castle features a staircase tower, added in 1790, accessible via a covered wooden bridge from the 19th century, spanning the former neck ditch.

The Forum Schlossplatz

Nearby, you'll find the House of the Castle Garden, which served as the seat of the Helvetic Republic's government in 1798 and now houses the Forum Schlossplatz. This cultural venue hosts various exhibitions and events, further enriching the historical experience of visiting Schlössli Aarau.

Architectural Marvels and Renovations

Schlössli Aarau's architectural evolution is a testament to its enduring significance. In 1975-76, a historical mill from Bözen was reconstructed southeast of the castle. The castle's facades were renovated in 1978-80, the roof was restored in 2000, and the window frames were refurbished in 2003. Between 2012 and 2015, a major expansion project by Diener & Diener with Martin Steinmann was realized, adding a new extension to the west side and incorporating a new staircase and elevator, making the museum more accessible. The castle itself underwent a gentle renovation, and a new permanent exhibition was installed, featuring scenography by EMYL Basel.

Visiting Schlössli Aarau

Schlössli Aarau is not just a historical monument; it's a vibrant cultural hub that invites visitors to explore Aarau's past and present. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, the castle's rich history, architectural beauty, and engaging exhibits make it a must-visit destination in Aarau. As you stroll through its ancient halls and admire the stunning views of the old town, you'll be transported back in time, experiencing the legacy of this remarkable Swiss castle.