Gruyères Castle, Medieval castle in Gruyères, Switzerland
Gruyères Castle is a medieval fortress located on a hilltop in the Alpine foothills of the Fribourg region. The structure features a square floor plan with defensive towers and interior galleries illuminated by large windows throughout.
The fortress was built in the 13th century as the residence of the Counts of Gruyères and remained their seat for three centuries. The family lost control of it in 1554 due to debt, after which the property changed hands several times.
The castle displays furnishings and objects that reflect how the nobility lived across different periods. These rooms show the tastes and interests of families who once called this place home.
Visitors can explore the rooms either independently or with an audio guide, allowing you to move through at your own pace. The building is well-signposted inside, though steep stairs in some areas require reasonable mobility to navigate fully.
In the 19th century, an artistic family transformed the fortress into a creative hub where painters, sculptors, and writers gathered regularly. This period left marks on the decoration and collections visible to visitors today.
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