In Hunzenschwil, Roman craftsmanship, unusual church architecture and protected ponds come together. Particularly notable are the Roman legionary tile kilns, one of the most significant Roman archaeological sites in the canton of Aargau. Together with the WaldWanderWege trails and the Krebsbach ponds, they offer a range of ways to explore the area, from archaeological remains to nature.
Roman tile kilns and their production facilities
Three firing kilns were identified at the legionary tile kilns. Two large kilns were used to make tiles and architectural ceramics. Based on vessel fragments, a smaller kiln was identified as a pottery kiln. The different types of kilns thus offer a tangible insight into the various functions within the tile-making complex.
A hall measuring at least 55 × 18 metres is thought to have been used for making and, in particular, drying tiles and architectural ceramics. Tiles from the complex were supplied mainly to the legionary camp at Vindonissa. Together with the site’s importance within the canton, this makes the tile kilns an engaging subject for anyone interested in Roman craftsmanship and building production.
A church with a heptagonal floor plan
Hunzenschwil Church also makes its own architectural statement. It was built in 1959 and 1960 and dedicated on 11 September 1960. Its floor plan is heptagonal, following neither the traditional layout of a nave nor that of a round church.
The stained-glass windows were designed by Arnold Zahner of Rheinfelden in 1960, using glass and concrete. The floor plan and windows highlight two different aspects of the church’s design: the building’s unusual geometry and the use of the stated materials in the windows. The church thus complements the Roman production facilities with another perspective on Hunzenschwil’s architectural history.
Krebsbach ponds and diverse habitats
The Krebsbach ponds are a protected nature area. The aim is to conserve and promote the protected and endangered plant and animal species found there. The two bodies of water differ in both shape and the habitats they are intended to provide: the southern woodland pond is slightly deeper and was created for more familiar and common amphibian species. Pioneer species can settle in the shallower northern pond.
The two ponds thus cater to different groups of amphibians. When exploring Hunzenschwil’s natural environment, it is worth noting the difference between the deeper southern pond and the shallower northern one. Follow the current signs on site when visiting.
WaldWanderWege trails and fire pits
Hunzenschwil has five WaldWanderWege trails, which were launched and officially opened in 2005. The trail network may change, so check the local signs before setting out. The information board about the trails is by the fountain at the southern end of Strangengasse. If the information point has been moved, follow the current signs to find your way.
Together with the nature and environmental protection commission, the municipality maintains five scenic fire pits and regularly repairs them. When using them, follow the current local fire restrictions and safety instructions. Alongside the marked walking routes, these well-maintained fire pits are another way to enjoy the outdoors in Hunzenschwil.
Forest hut and getting there
The forest hut in Hunzenschwil can accommodate around 30 to 40 people. In front of the hut is a barbecue area with an additional grill. Reservation requirements and terms of use may change; check with the municipality in advance if you are planning to use the forest hut.
For rail travel, Hunzenschwil station is on the SBB Zofingen–Lenzburg line, with trains running every half hour. Check the current SBB timetable before travelling. The regional bus from Hunzenschwil runs to Lenzburg station and to Rupperswil. For bus routes and departure times, too, check the latest information before setting off.
Discover more destinations: Möriken-Wildegg, Seengen, Othmarsingen, Lenzburg, Rupperswil, Holderbank, Meisterschwanden
Back to the main travel guide: Lenzburg.
