Switzerland · 16th century
The Munot is a circular 16th-century fortification located on Emmersberg hill in the city of Schaffhausen, Switzerland, and serves as a symbol of the city. It is surrounded by vineyards, which have been cultivated since the early 20th century. The structure was built between 1564 and 1589, partly through compulsory labor (Frondienst), and formed part of the city’s defensive fortifications. The site had earlier fortifications, with references to a structure called Annot in 1376 and Unot in 1460.
The Munot's circular design strongly reflects the fortress concepts of Albrecht Dürer. Its lower level consists of a hexagonal trench structure with caponiers (defensive turrets), above which are circular casemates and a battlement platform. A projecting tower on the city-facing side rises to a height of around 50 metres.
Text adapted from “Munot” on Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Munot ranks #1,478 of 9,079 worldwide in the atlas's castle fame ranking, and #8 of the 213 mapped in Switzerland. Founded 1563, it is older than 36% of the atlas's dated landmarks — one of 891 atlas entries founded in the 16th century. Its Wikipedia articles were opened 3,168 times in the last 60 days, more than 79% of the atlas. 10 more atlas landmarks stand within 25 km. The nearest day-trip guide is Winterthur, 23 km away. See how Switzerland compares in the castle statistics.
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