| Munot | |
| Built: | 1564–1589 |
| Condition: | preserved |
| Location: | Schaffhausen |
| Coordinates: | 47.6969°N 8.6397°W |
| Map Type: | Canton of Schaffhausen#Switzerland |
| Code: | CH-SH |
The Munot is a circular 16th-century fortification located on Emmersberg hill in the city of Schaffhausen, Switzerland, and serves as a symbol of the city.[1] [2] It is surrounded by vineyards, which have been cultivated since the early 20th century. The structure was built between 1564 and 1589, partly through compulsory labor (Frondienst), and formed part of the city’s defensive fortifications.[3] The site had earlier fortifications, with references to a structure called Annot in 1376 and Unot in 1460.
The Munot's circular design strongly reflects the fortress concepts of Albrecht Dürer. Its lower level consists of a hexagonal trench structure with caponiers (defensive turrets), above which are circular casemates and a battlement platform. A projecting tower on the city-facing side rises to a height of around 50 metres.
In 1905, a fallow deer colony was introduced into the Munot moat by the Verschönerungsverein Schaffhausen and was transferred to city ownership in 1927.[4] As of 2015, the animals were under the care of Grün Schaffhausen, which commissioned an expert report confirming their good health.
According to a 2019 Swissinfo article, the role of the Guardian of the Munot dates back to 1377, predating the current 16th-century structure.[5] The guardian traditionally lived with their family in the tower and was responsible for monitoring the town, sounding an alarm in case of danger, and ringing the Munot bell each evening at 9 p.m. This bell marked the time for city gates to close and for taverns and shops to shut. The ritual has remained a daily tradition carried out by the resident guardian.
