When you think of vacationing in Switzerland, you must picture the snow-covered Alps, charming alpine villages, and world-famous chocolate. However, beyond these favourites lie some underrated gems—Switzerland is home to nearly 500 castles, each with its own slice of history and character.
Read on to discover some of the most famous castles in Switzerland that you should visit at least once in your lifetime.
List of castles to visit in Switzerland
Some of the best castles to visit in Switzerland are:
- Château de Chillon (Montreux, Lake Geneva)
Located on the shore of Lake Geneva, Château de Chillon is a medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century. It's built on a rocky islet and features three courtyards and 25 buildings.
It features gothic underground vaults and prisons, a 14th-century chapel and Great Halls that were used for governance. Interestingly, it inspired Lord Byron’s poem ‘The Prisoner of Chillon’.
- Schloss Tarasp (Lower Engadine, Graubünden)
Schloss Tarasp was built in the 11th century by the Lords of Tarasp. Situated on a hilltop, this 1000-year-old castle was restored by Not Vital. While the castle is now owned privately, it is still open for tours.
The Romanesque-style castle features a chapel, an armoury and a 2,500-pipe organ that was used for live performances.
- Oberhofen Castle (Lake Thun, Bernese Oberland)
Situated lakeside in Oberhofen, this castle was built in the 13th century and later expanded in the 19th century. Its architecture combines medieval, Gothic Revival and exotic styles.
The castle features lush gardens along the lake, a chapel with Romanesque frescoes and a Turkish-style smoking room at the top.
- Gruyères Castle (Fribourg)
Gruyères Castle is located on top of a hill in the medieval town of Gruyères. Built in the 13th century, it served as the official residence of the Counts of Gruyères.
It was a medieval fortress converted into a residence with French-style gardens and Renaissance interiors. The castle is also home to various tapestries, stained glass structures and artworks older than 800 years.
Conclusion
The castles of Switzerland offer a fascinating glimpse into different eras of history. With a mixture of architectural styles, cultural influences and stories spanning centuries, there's a castle to captivate every history lover and art enthusiast.
When you plan your journey, remember to carry all essential documents and consider acquiring travel insurance online. Travel insurance for Switzerland can protect you against unexpected issues like delays, medical emergencies or cancellations.
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