The stunning Gruyères Castle stands tall above the village of Gruyères providing a captivating glimpse into the history and culture spanning from the Middle Ages to modern times. With its architecture historical artifacts, varied artworks, an immersive multimedia presentation and rotating special displays a visit, to this castle promises an unforgettable journey through time.
Gruyères Castle / Photo Brigitte Heller
Gruyères Castle / Photo Brigitte Heller
Gruyères Castle: A Storied Past of Nobility and Administration
The castle, once the seat of the Counts of Gruyères, was built around 1270 and underwent significant changes over the centuries. After it was converted into a manorial residence at the end of the 15th century and lost its fortress character, it served as the seat of the administrators of Fribourg i. Üe from 1555. The baroque interiors date from this period.
The castle later became the private property of the Bovy and Balland families from Geneva and developed into a meeting place for artists. Well-known painters such as Corot and Menn created late romantic and historicist paintings that can still be admired today.
Gruyères Castle garden / Photo Brigitte Heller
The castle was repurchased by the canton of Fribourg in 1938. It now serves as the home of a museum that showcases collections reflecting a deep and diverse history.
Tracing Centuries of Transformation and Heritage
Exploring the castle feels like taking a captivating journey in time to uncover its treasures; from the medieval stained glass windows, to the ornate cloaks worn by the Knights of the Order of the Golden Fleece during Charles the Bolds era; from the intricate wall decorations commissioned by bailiffs in the past to the artworks by Jean Baptiste Camille Corot and the charming decor of the Knights Hall crafted in a passionate troubadour style by a group of artists, in the 19th century. These artistic wonders truly showcase a history waiting to be discovered!
Opening hours and admission prices at: Chateau Gruyères
Video Château de Gruyères – Art, histoire et légendes
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Video Walking through the Medieval Castle of Gruyères in Switzerland
In the heart of Switzerland, the medieval town of Gruyères with the Castle of Gruyères (in french Château de Gruyères) is a picturesque 13th century Town and Castle. Gruyères Castle is atop a hill in the Canton of Fribourg in the Alpine foothills of Switzerland and is one of the many Swiss heritage sites that are across Switzerland.
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