Werdenberg facts for kids
Werdenberg is a really old and charming village located in the Swiss canton of St. Gallen. It's just a short distance from the town of Buchs. Even though it's a historic place, only about 55 to 60 people live there today. There are around 40 houses, and some of them are used by people for holidays. Werdenberg is famous for its amazing castle, which many tourists love to visit!
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Discover Werdenberg Village
Werdenberg is a special place because it has kept its medieval look. Walking through the village feels like stepping back in time. The houses are very old and well-preserved. The castle, sitting high above the village, is a big attraction. It offers great views and a peek into the past.
Werdenberg's Past: A Journey Through Time
Long ago, Werdenberg was more than just a village; it was the center of a county. A county was like a small region ruled by a count or a noble family. The County of Werdenberg included the village itself, plus nearby areas like Grabs, Buchs, and Sevelen. The counts also had the power to make laws and judge people in a place called Wartau.
Who Ruled Werdenberg?
The first count of Werdenberg passed away in 1182. Over the years, the county changed hands many times. In 1402, the counts who followed the first one decided to lease the county to another noble family, the Counts of Montfort-Tettnang. Later, in 1485, the county was sold to the City of Lucerne. Then, in 1517, it was sold again, this time to the Canton of Glarus.
Werdenberg in Modern Switzerland
Big changes happened when Napoleon was powerful in Switzerland. This period was known as the Helvetic Republic (from 1798 to 1803). During this time, Werdenberg became part of a new canton called the Canton of Linth. This new canton also included the modern-day Canton of Glarus and parts of the Canton of Schwyz. After Napoleon's rule ended, Switzerland was reorganized. Werdenberg then became a part of the Canton of St. Gallen, which is where it remains today.
