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Castle · Gruyères, Fribourg
Gruyères Castle
13th-century castle at the highest point of the town of Gruyères, former residence of the Counts of Gruyère, with rooms that tell eight centuries of history, from medieval courts to 19th-century painters.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Gruyères Castle
Gruyères Castle dominates the town from the top of the hill. The first mention dates to the 13th century, when it was the residence of the Counts of Gruyère, lords of the region during the Middle Ages.
The visit covers three main periods: that of the counts; that of the bailiffs of Fribourg, who administered the region after the last count’s bankruptcy in the 16th century; and that of an artist-collector family who bought the castle in the 19th century and hosted painters, including Camille Corot.
The rooms display medieval stained glass, vestments taken from the troops of Charles the Bold, painted decorations from the bailiffs’ era and works by artists who passed through the castle. Temporary exhibitions by living artists continue that tradition.
From the gardens and the walls you can see the Sarine valley, the pastures and the Moléson.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour and a half.
Best time
In the morning, before the groups arrive, or late in the afternoon. Opening hours vary between winter and summer; check before you go.
How to get there
At the top of the town, at the end of the main street, about a 15-minute walk from Gruyères station.
Tip
Climb up to the walls and the gardens at the end of the visit for the view over the pastures and the Moléson.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Gruyères Castle
Who lived in the castle of Gruyères?
The Counts of Gruyère in the Middle Ages; later, the bailiffs of Fribourg and, in the 19th century, a family of artists and collectors.
How long does a visit to the castle of Gruyères take?
About an hour and a half, including the gardens and the ramparts.
How to get to the castle of Gruyères?
On foot, walking up from the station to the town and following the main street to the castle.