The north wall
Old stone among the grass.
Pakeha — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Pakeha — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Pakeha — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Pakeha — CC BY-SA 4.0
The Roman Fort in Schaan is what remains of a small late Roman fort, part of the defensive chain on the Danube-Iller-Rhine frontier in the province of Raetia. Its remains are modest, yet it is among the oldest built remains you can see in the country, a reminder that this valley was an important military route long ago. In the 1st century AD the Romans built a military road from Milan to Bregenz across this land. In the mid-4th century the fort went up to protect the Rhine Valley against Alemannic raids. Foundations of the north wall and the gate tower survive. The site later became the core of medieval Schaan, and a 5th-century baptistery was found inside St. Peter's Church. You see a low wall of irregular stone clad in small plants, surrounded by clipped grass and green beds, beside the white wall of the church. A panel on site shows a plan of the fort and its towers, helping you picture what once stood here. It all lies among the town's houses, with no fences or large installations, so it is very quiet. It is 2.7 km in a straight line from Vaduz and 400 m from central Schaan, so it suits a short stop on a walk around town. Do not climb the walls or take stones, as these are protected remains. Respect the neighbouring church and keep quiet during services. Read the panel, which explains what the stones do not.
Old stone among the grass.
Foundations in view.
Showing the fort's shape.
By St. Peter's Church, Schaan
Yes for a short stop, especially for Roman history fans.
Low walls and a panel, so do not expect a big building.
