Discover Eschen: History, Trails and Events

Eschen can be explored through several interests: the traffic-free village square in the centre, historic sites and trails on Eschnerberg, and recurring events throughout the year. For planning your trip, the distinction is useful: events have seasonal anchors, while architectural history and trails shape the area regardless of whether a festival is taking place.

Village Centre and Historic Sites

The spacious, traffic-free village square defines the centre of Eschen. Beneath the square is a large underground car park for visitors and customers of the nearby shops.

The chapel dedicated to the Holy Cross stands on Rofenberg. This historic site of national significance is a landmark of the municipality. From 1573 to 1808, the court of the former Lordship of Schellenberg convened in front of the chapel. The site also frequently served as the Landsgemeinde square for the court district of Untere Landschaft. The history of Rofberg therefore encompasses both the chapel and earlier political and judicial assemblies.

Another distinctive building is the listed parish church of St. Martin, built in 1893/94. The historic Gastelun Lane, also known as Castellun Lane, was part of the pilgrimage route to Einsiedeln and Santiago de Compostela. Together, these places add different periods and contexts to the story of Eschen’s architecture.

Trails on Eschnerberg and in the Surrounding Area

The Historic Ridge Trail stretches across the entire Eschnerberg; Eschen lies roughly halfway along it. Illustrated information boards at points of historical interest or scenic significance provide information about history, nature and the landscape. Five waymarked circular trails on Eschnerberg pass significant prehistoric sites and invite visitors to explore or enjoy a walk. The themes differ: the boards along the ridge trail cover history, nature and the landscape, while the circular trails pass by the archaeological sites.

The cultural trail through Eschen begins in the centre, opposite the municipal building and right by the Pfrundbauten. It is very easy to reach by public transport. Cycling routes also run in and around Eschen, with direct connections to the cycle network. The Riet nearby invites visitors to enjoy peace and long walks in unspoilt nature.

The Mill and Maize Culture

The year 1778 is inscribed above the entrance to the mill in Eschen; originally, it served as a manorial wine press. At the annual milling day in spring, visitors can follow the journey of the maize kernel, the individual stages of the milling process and how the mill works. The event focuses on both the milling process and the mill itself.

A local food tradition is also linked to maize: Eschen Tüergga has long been said to make excellent Rebel. In earlier years, this maize dish was served every day.

Events Throughout the Year

The traditional Bretschalauf race starts each April in Eschen’s village square. The church consecration festival on Rofenberg, known as “Kappele-Kelbi”, takes place on the first Sunday after 3 May; the exact programme may vary. The traditional Unterland fair follows in Eschen in October. If you are planning your stay around one of these events, check the exact date in advance and, for Kappele-Kelbi, the programme as well.

Eschen Indoor Swimming Pool

Eschen Indoor Swimming Pool is the only indoor pool in Liechtenstein’s Unterland. It has a sports pool, a non-swimmers’ pool and a toddler pool. Check the current pool layout before your visit.

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