Mönchsberg’s geology doesn’t make for a particularly sturdy foundation. There have been numerous rockfalls and cleavages during its history, including a disaster on July 16, 1669 when the mountain descended on the Gstättengasse. 230 citizens, 2 churches, 13 houses, and a seminary were crushed. This – and another fatal episode in 1765 – led to the cry for regular monitoring.
Today, Mönchsberg is supervised by a Bergputzer (“mountain inspector”) and maintained by “mountain cleaners.” These hardy climbers examine the surface for weaknesses, remove loose rock, and trim vegetation.