[1] The area around Wartau was first settled around 9000 years ago, culminating in neolithic settlements on the nearby Ochsenberg and Prochna Burg at about 3000 BC.

[3] The castle probably returned to the Werdenberg-Heiligenberg family and was occupied by their vassals for the next couple decades.

In 1498 they sold the castle and lands to the Swabian von Hewen family.

In the following year Matthias von Kastelwart died in the Battle of Dornach against the Swiss.

[3] It was built atop a small tor or rock outcrop east of Gretschins hamlet.

In the 14th century an additional story was added to the top of both towers along with new parapets and a flat roof.

[6] The castle is surrounded on three sides by a ring wall, which ran along a steep cliff.