Gruyères, Medieval town in Fribourg Canton, Switzerland
Gruyères is a medieval town located on a 810-meter hill overlooking the Saane valley, surrounded by Pre-Alpine mountains and forests. The settlement's structure reflects its hilltop position, with cobblestone streets winding through buildings that date back generations.
The town was first documented in 1144 as de Grueria and grew into a market settlement under Count Rudolf IV's rule during the late 12th century. This period established its importance in the region and shaped its layout.
The town houses four museums that reflect how locals and visitors engage with the place: the castle, the HR Giger Museum, the Tibet Museum, and a cheese-making center. These institutions show how the community values its past and present crafts.
The town is accessible by train from Bulle toward Montbovon, with bus services connecting to neighboring areas. The cobblestone streets on the hill require sturdy footwear, and walking around takes time because the streets wind and climb.
The local cheese factory produces Gruyère AOP following strict rules that require cows to eat only grass and hay grown on the land. This means every wheel of cheese reflects the meadows and seasons of the place.
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