The Yburg is an enchanting castle ruin in the Rems-Murr district, which rises picturesquely amidst vineyards in the municipality of Kernen im Remstal, in the district of Stetten. This historical site not only offers visitors a magnificent view over the Rems Valley, but also a fascinating insight into the region’s past and art.
A journey through the history of Yburg Castle
The history of Yburg Castle is exciting and mysterious. In 1384, the Lords of Stetten began building a moated castle, but only the residential wing – the Palas – was completed. A third storey was added to the castle around 1650. During this time, Stetten Castle was owned by the Bonn, Liebenstein and Stetten families, who fought bitter inheritance disputes. In 1960, the castle became the property of the then municipality of Stetten im Remstal and was extensively renovated.
Architecture and art in harmony
The Yburg impresses with its cube-shaped structure and the simple but well-preserved outer walls. The entrance gate is located on the western, valley-facing side. Inside the castle, to the left of the entrance is a doorless room with a vaulted ceiling and a narrow window on the north wall, which gives the building a special architectural touch. Sculptures by the Stuttgart sculptor Karl Ulrich Nuss have complemented the complex since 2011. These whimsical works of art provide an interesting and modern contrast to the historic ruins and give the Yburg a special atmosphere.
The museum vineyard – craftsmanship and nature in perfect symbiosis
Next to the Yburg is the museum vineyard, an impressive testimony to ancient craftsmanship. Over many generations, our ancestors created dry stone terraces here using painstaking manual labour. They used sandstone from the surrounding area and built stable walls up to four metres high without mortar. This technique is reminiscent of the wall construction of the Incas in Machu Picchu. The countless stones that have been used over the centuries bear witness to the hard work and skill of previous generations. These dry stone walls are a remarkable cultural achievement and can be compared to the construction of the Great Wall of China.
A visit to the Yburg and the neighbouring museum vineyard offers an unforgettable experience. The combination of historical architecture, breathtaking views and fascinating art makes this place a special destination in the Rems Valley.
