Randegg – Castle History and Nature

Randegg Castle: History and Art

The castle’s origins date back a long way: it was probably built between 1000 and 1100 on the foundations of a Roman fort. Swedish troops occupied Randegg Castle in 1638 and set it on fire a year later. The stone structure, which has largely survived to this day, dates from its reconstruction by Gebhard von Schellenberg in 1567. These dates trace different chapters in the castle’s history—from its presumed beginnings to the reconstruction that shaped it.

Randegg Castle is also associated with the Expressionist painter Otto Dix, who lived there for a time. The art exhibition “Experimentelle” takes place at the castle. It is presented in eleven rooms, the chapel and parts of the castle park. Since 1998, the exhibition has been held every two years. This brings together architectural history and a recurring art event at one location; it is best to plan around the current exhibition by checking the relevant dates.

Sites of Remembrance in Randegg

Randegg Synagogue Square is located where the synagogue once stood in the heart of Randegg. A slender steel structure traces the outline of the former building. The square thus refers to the former synagogue, while its visible design echoes its basic shape.

The Jewish cemetery is also part of the town’s history. Randegg’s Jewish community established it as early as the 17th century in the “Flözler” district, directly on the Swiss border. As a stone witness, it stands for a centuries-old and eventful Jewish history. Synagogue Square and the cemetery commemorate Jewish life in Randegg in different ways: one refers to the site of the former synagogue, the other to the historic community and its cemetery.

Pilgrimage, Church Tower and Bell

The pilgrimage to Saint Ottilia in Randegg probably began around 1400. Another historical landmark is the church tower, which dates from the 12th century. It houses Germany’s oldest dated bell, from 1209. Together, these details offer insight into Randegg’s religious history and older architectural history, though the two cannot both be traced back to the same period.

The Ottilienquelle (Ottilia Spring) is considered one of Randegg’s defining features. Visits to the spring are available to groups by prior arrangement. If you are planning such a visit, confirm the current arrangements before your trip. If you want to attend “Experimentelle” during your trip, also check the current exhibition dates.

Moorland Landscape and Circular Hike

The Murbacher Ried nature reserve protects a valuable moorland and wetland area of just over eleven hectares for the long term. It lies at the foot of the Rauhenberg near Murbach, a district of Gottmadingen, within the municipal area of Randegg and directly on the Swiss border. Its protected status, distinctive landscape and location offer a different perspective on the surroundings from the historic sites in the village.

For a hiking option, the Burgenweg 12 trail runs as a circular route from Randegg, a district of Gottmadingen, to Bietingen and back. In some sections, the route runs more or less within sight of the small River Biber. For trip planning, you can choose between focusing on the castle and local history or taking a circular hike; these are based on different activities and descriptions.

For the broader travel overview: Gottmadingen.