Wildkirchli Archaeological Site

Wildkirchli is a small cave complex and hermitage site in the Alpstein massif of Appenzell Innerrhoden, Switzerland, located beneath the Ebenalp. The site is notable for both its historic hermitage and Paleolithic archaeological finds.

The cave chambers where Paleolithic-era bone and stone artefacts were recovered and a compact interpretation area that explains the excavations. A rock-built hermitage and small chapel are set beside the caves and are part of the site experienced by walkers.

Archaeological work at the caves uncovered Palaeolithic-era remains, including animal bones and stone tools, showing human use of the site in prehistoric times. The hermitage reflects later religious use of the caves and rock shelters.

Wildkirchli sits on the northern side of the Alpstein near the Ebenalp plateau in Appenzell Innerrhoden. Visitors typically approach via the Ebenalp cable car from Wasserauen and then follow short mountain paths to the caves.

• Access: Reachable on foot from the Ebenalp cable car upper station or by hiking from Wasserauen along marked mountain paths.

What to See#

• Cave complex and archaeological site: A group of three cave chambers carved into the limestone beneath the Ebenalp where prehistoric bone and tool fragments were found; the site includes a small interpretation area explaining the archaeological finds.
• Hermitage and chapel: A small hermitage and chapel built into the rock face adjacent to the caves and used historically for solitary religious retreat.

From Wasserauen (reachable by regional train from Appenzell or Gossau), take the Ebenalp cable car to the mountain station. From the Ebenalp station it is a roughly 30-45 minute signposted walk along the ridge to the Wildkirchli caves and hermitage. In winter the cable car may be closed; check local service notices.

• Take the Ebenalp cable car from Wasserauen and then follow the signposted 30-45 minute trail to Wildkirchli-shoes with grip help on wet limestone steps.
• Visit early morning (first cable car) to avoid day-trippers and see the light in the cave mouth fall like a screen.
• Combine the visit with a stop at Berggasthaus Aescher on the same ridge; it's only a short detour and photographs better in soft light than at high noon.
• Bring a warm layer; the caves are cool year-round and the wind on the ridge can be sharp.