Castle of the bishops of Lausanne, then baillivale residence and prefecture, Medieval episcopal castle in Bulle, Switzerland
The Castle of the bishops of Lausanne in Bulle is a four-sided complex measuring approximately 41 by 44 meters. Three sides hold residential wings while the fourth side features a tall defensive wall.
The castle was built between 1291 and 1331 under the Lausanne bishops, who established it as their regional administrative center. Following Reformation changes and conquest by Bern, it became the seat of the bailli and later a government building.
The building reflects the architectural style of the Savoy dynasty through its square layout, a design that appears in other castles across the surrounding region. This design choice connected the site to broader architectural movements of its era.
The building still functions as the prefecture headquarters of Gruyere district and can be viewed from outside, but remains primarily a working office. Visitors should understand it is not a museum open to the general public.
The castle's defensive tower rises about 33 meters high and was originally accessed through a high-set opening positioned several meters above ground level. This was a typical security measure to protect the entrance from attackers.
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