Abschnittsbefestigung Schänzle (Geisingen)

The Abschnittsbefestigung Schänzle is an ancient hilltop earthwork near Geisingen in southern Baden-Württemberg. It stands on a narrow ridge pointing northeast, 877 metres above sea level, close to the former Amtenhausen monastery. The site was built long before written records began, probably in the Iron Age or early medieval period. The defences consist of a four-metre-wide rampart up to three metres high, backed by a deep ditch. Two modern breaks in the rampart and a flattened section suggest later use. A smaller outer wall runs along the hill’s edges, while steep slopes on the west and north already protect two sides. Inside, a circular stone ring of unknown date covers part of the 1.46-hectare enclosure. Visitors reach the site along quiet forest tracks north of Geisingen. From the rampart’s crest there are wide views over the surrounding valleys. The grassy interior is crossed by faint paths worn by walkers and archaeologists. No buildings remain, only the earthworks and the single stone circle, silent reminders of a distant past.