Saint-Maire Castle

Lausanne, Switzerland

Château Saint-Maire ('Saint-Maire Castle') was built from 1397 to 1425 by the Bishops of Lausanne to serve as their fortified residence. Begun under Guillaume of Menthonay, it was completed under his successor, Guillaume of Challant, and named after Saint Marius, the first Bishop of Lausanne. It served as the bishop's residence until 1536, when Bern captured Lausanne and secularized the bishopric (the bishop, Sébastien of Montfalcon, escaped through a hidden stairwell). The Bernese installed a bailiff in the château and used it as an armory. Upon the creation of the canton of Vaud in 1803, it became seat of the cantonal government, a role it has retained.

The château was built as a single massive rectangular block, as was common at the time, with brick for the upper portion and sandstone for the lower portion. It originally had Ghibelline merlons, which gave it a somewhat Italian appearance, but due to the wet climate, the roof was extended and the merlons filled, probably in the 16th century. The windows that form a row just below the eaves fill the gaps between the merlons, and the arches above the windows fill the v-shaped openings in the Ghibelline style of merlon.

In 1789, the Bernese built an annex on the west side of the castle, through which it is now entered. A tower that formerly stood next to the château was demolished in 1890, and around the same time, a statue of Abraham Davelwas installed against the front wall.

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Details

Founded: 1397-1425
Category: Castles and fortifications in Switzerland

Rating

4.3/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Jiayi Wu (15 months ago)
Nice platform. The view is not specifically good but quiet and relaxing.
Carl FromTheOC (17 months ago)
I do not know if you need a ticket to get in, or even if you can go in. I just enjoyed it from the outside - it's architecture and the statue. If you are into that sort of thing, check it out.
Natalia Tykhoniuk (18 months ago)
Château St-Maire in Lausanne is a magnificent historical site that showcases architectural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Located on a hill overlooking the city and Lake Geneva, this medieval castle-turned-palace offers a captivating glimpse into the past. The castle's striking façade and well-preserved structure make it an impressive landmark. Its grandeur is further enhanced by the beautifully manicured gardens and surrounding park, which provide a serene and picturesque setting. Inside the Château St-Maire, visitors can explore various rooms and halls that have been restored to their former glory. The intricate details of the architecture, including stunning stained glass windows and ornate ceilings, are a testament to the craftsmanship of the past. The Château St-Maire offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lausanne and Lake Geneva from its elevated position. It's a perfect spot to capture memorable photos and appreciate the city's beauty from a different perspective. Guided tours are available to provide visitors with in-depth knowledge about the castle's history and significance. The knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories and insights, enriching the overall experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Château St-Maire in Lausanne is a must-visit destination. It seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.
Ruchika (20 months ago)
Start the day here and walk down through the town. It is a great vantage point to overlook the city and the castle is impressive from the outside.
Michael Wu PhD (3 years ago)
We've been here twice, but never had the luck of visiting this castle and see the inside.
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