Châtel-sur-Montsalvens Castle, Castle ruin in Broc, Switzerland

The Château de Montsalvens is a castle ruin in Broc, Switzerland. It consists of a square keep about 12 meters (39 feet) on each side and some 15 meters (49 feet) tall, with thick walls and remains of the surrounding walls and gate.

The castle is first mentioned in the 12th century and was linked to the counts of Gruyère. It was strengthened in 1274, occupied by Fribourg in 1277, and returned to Gruyère in 1283; later it passed to Fribourg in 1555 and fell into ruin.

The name Montsalvens comes from old forms such as Montsalvan and Montsilvan, which likely mean "mountain forest". The nearby road En Bataille recalls the former fortification, and the neighboring village of Châtel-sur-Montsalvens also owes its name to the castle.

To reach the ruin, follow the Rue de Montsalvens from the center of Broc; the path climbs through the forest and can be muddy after rain. Wear sturdy shoes and allow enough time to explore the site and enjoy the view over the valley.

The castle was part of a fortified town with two gates and two rows of houses, but the town disappeared by 1433. Excavations in the 1940s uncovered the foundations of these houses and the lower gate, which are now hidden by vegetation.