Chillon Castle
Vaud
Chillon Castle is a medieval island fortress located on a limestone rock on Lake Geneva's eastern shore between Montreux and Villeneuve in the Swiss canton of Vaud. Strategically positioned to control the key passage linking the northern routes to Germany and France with the Rhône valley leading to Italy, the castle historically served military and commercial purposes, including toll collection. Initially built as a square donjon in the 11th century, it was expanded significantly in the 13th century under the Counts of Savoy, who used it as a summer residence and military outpost. The castle features distinctive windows attributed to Master James of Saint George, linking it architecturally to other European fortresses. Chillon also functioned as a prison, famously holding François de Bonivard for six years. Captured by Bernese forces in 1536, it later became a residence for Bernese bailiffs and eventually came under the canton of Vaud in 1798. Today, it is a Swiss Cultural Property of National Significance and one of the most visited medieval castles in Europe, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and spectacular setting against the backdrop of the Alps and Lake Geneva.
Plan your trip to Switzerland with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak seasons. The castle is open until 7 PM with last entry at 6 PM. Guided tours in period costume offer a unique way to experience the castle's history. Spring and early summer provide pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Family-friendly events and workshops are available seasonally, enhancing the visitor experience. Public transport connections and parking facilities make access convenient.
Interesting facts
- •Chillon Castle is built on the largest island in Lake Geneva, measuring approximately 120 by 48 meters.
- •The castle's distinctive windows were designed by Master James of Saint George, who also worked on Harlech Castle in Wales.
- •François de Bonivard, a Genevois monk and historian, was imprisoned here for six years and inspired Lord Byron's poem 'The Prisoner of Chillon'.
- •Chillon Castle is the most visited historic building in Switzerland, attracting over 400,000 visitors annually.
- •The castle controlled a vital medieval trade route between northern Europe and Italy, collecting tolls on travelers.
History
Chillon Castle's origins date back to the 11th century with the construction of a square donjon to guard the route from Burgundy to the Great Saint Bernard Pass.
The House of Savoy expanded the castle in the 13th century, establishing it as a military stronghold and summer residence.
It served as a prison during this period, notably imprisoning François de Bonivard.
In 1536, the castle was seized by Bernese forces and became the residence of the Bernese bailiff.
Following the Bernese departure in 1798, the Vaudois canton took control, using the castle as a munitions depot.
A major restoration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries preserved the structure, applying archaeological and historical methods to maintain its authenticity.
Place Guide
The Donjon (Keep)11th century
The oldest part of the castle, this square tower was built in the 11th century as a defensive stronghold to control the strategic route through the Rhône valley.
The Savoyard Apartments13th-14th century
Lavishly decorated living quarters used by the Counts of Savoy during the 13th and 14th centuries, showcasing medieval residential architecture and art.
The PrisonMedieval period
A notorious part of the castle used to detain prisoners, including the famous François de Bonivard, whose imprisonment inspired literary works.
The Courtyard and Ramparts
Open areas providing panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, highlighting the castle's strategic location and defensive architecture.
Contact
Phone: 021 966 89 10
