Aarburg Castle

The castle stands on a steep rocky hill overlooking the Aare River, with stone walls rising directly from the cliffs at 47 meters above ground level.

Built around 1200 by the Lords of Büron, the fortress changed hands multiple times between ruling families before becoming a Bernese stronghold in 1415.

The castle demonstrates medieval Swiss military architecture through its fortified walls, watchtowers, and defensive structures positioned to control river passage routes.

The facility currently operates as a rehabilitation center for young offenders, limiting general public access to specific guided tour times during weekends.

The fortress served as a detention center for political prisoners in the 18th century, including scientist Jacques-Barthélemy Micheli du Crest during his 30-year imprisonment.

Location: Aarburg

Inception: 1659

Part of: list of cultural properties in Aarburg

Address: Schlossrain 1-1.16, 4663 Aarburg 4663 4663

GPS coordinates: 47.32164,7.90093

Latest update: May 14, 2025 07:50