Holligen Castle

Holligen Castle is a fortress in Bern featuring a square donjon built from stone blocks and four corner towers designed in Burgundian architectural style. The structure displays typical medieval characteristics marked by thick walls and compact proportions.

The castle's first documented mention dates to 1257 when the Teutonic Knights' commandry of Köniz controlled the property. This early connection reveals its significance as a fortified residence during the medieval period.

The castle serves as a venue for cultural events today, reflecting its role as a gathering place for the community. People experience this space as a living part of Bern's heritage rather than just a historical monument.

The castle is located at Holligenstrasse 44 and primarily welcomes group visits by prior arrangement. Individual visitors should confirm access conditions before planning a visit.

A historical map by Thomas Schöpf from 1577 depicts the castle surrounded by a ring wall with multiple small towers. This design differs significantly from the current layout and offers insight into how the fortifications appeared centuries ago.

Location: Bern

Part of: list of cultural properties in Bern / Mattenhof-Weissenbühl

Address: Holligenstrasse 44-46, 3008 Bern

Website: https://schlossholligen.ch

GPS coordinates: 46.94364,7.41869

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:24