Castle of the bishops of Lausanne, then baillivale residence and prefecture

The Castle of the Bishops of Lausanne, locally known as Schloss der Bischöfe von Lausanne, is an enchanting historical site nestled in the charming town of Bulle in the Swiss canton of Fribourg. This former seat of power, with its imposing towers and fortified walls, stands as a testament to the rich and turbulent history of the region, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past.

The History of the Castle of the Bishops of Lausanne

The history of the Castle of the Bishops of Lausanne is deeply intertwined with the political and economic struggles of medieval Switzerland. Bulle, first mentioned in the 9th century, was a significant stronghold for the Bishops of Lausanne, who held sway over the region. This dominance was contested by the Counts of Gruyères, but their attempts to assert control were ultimately unsuccessful, leading to their withdrawal from Bulle and the abandonment of the market in Gruyères in 1195/1196.

The need to protect their economic interests led the bishops to fortify the town extensively in the 13th century. While it is uncertain if a castle existed before this period, the construction of a town wall between 1231 and 1239 marked the beginning of what would become the Castle of the Bishops of Lausanne. The castle itself, with its prominent 33-meter-high keep, was built under the direction of Bishop Guillaume de Champvent starting in 1291 and was completed in 1331.

Throughout the centuries, the castle withstood numerous challenges, including the Burgundian Wars and the conquest of the Vaud region in 1536. In 1476, a strategic alliance with Fribourg spared Bulle from destruction, and later, in 1536, the castle was taken over by the Fribourg authorities, transforming it into a bailiwick and later into the administrative center for the region.

Exploring the Castle of the Bishops of Lausanne

Today, the Castle of the Bishops of Lausanne stands proudly at the southern edge of the Place du Marché, at the crossroads of major routes connecting Fribourg, Vevey, Gruyères, and Romont. Its robust structure has remarkably survived several town fires, including those in 1447 and 1805, maintaining much of its original medieval charm.

The castle's layout features a central courtyard surrounded by buildings, with the southwest corner dominated by the imposing keep, or donjon. The other three corners are marked by smaller turret-like structures known as pepper pots. The castle's windows predominantly reflect the baroque renovations of the 18th century, although some gothic elements remain, particularly at the northeast corner.

Visitors entering the castle are greeted by the main entrance on the north side, which still features remnants of the old drawbridge mechanisms. The entrance, now a stone bridge, leads through a gothic portal adorned with the coat of arms of Bulle. Inside the courtyard, one can find several Romanesque portals, a staircase tower, and a well, all adding to the castle's historical ambiance.

The Keep and Defensive Features

The keep, a cylindrical tower with a diameter of 13.5 meters and walls 2.16 meters thick at the base, is a striking feature of the castle. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the town of Bulle. The keep and the smaller turrets are equipped with cross-shaped and keyhole-shaped arrow slits, reflecting the castle's defensive purpose.

Architecturally, the castle shows influences from the Savoyard style, characterized by its square layout, similar to other castles in the region, such as those in Morges and Yverdon. This influence is evident in the castle's design, which includes a 17-meter-wide moat that once provided additional protection, possibly filled with water from the Usiniers Canal during times of need.

The Castle's Evolution and Modern Use

Over the centuries, the Castle of the Bishops of Lausanne has undergone numerous transformations. From 1763 to 1768, it was remodeled to serve as a residence for the bailiff, with changes to the living quarters and audience hall. In 1798, following the French invasion, the castle became a symbol of the local struggle for more rights, culminating in the expulsion of the bailiff and the erection of a liberty tree in front of the castle.

Despite the political upheavals of the 19th century, the castle remained an administrative center, eventually becoming the seat of the Gruyères district. During World War II, it even served as a refuge for federal inspectors investigating black market activities, highlighting its continued importance in the region's history.

Preservation and Cultural Significance

In the 20th century, the castle underwent restoration from 1921 to 1930 and was subsequently listed as a protected site. Today, it is recognized as a cultural property of national significance by the Swiss Inventory of Cultural Property, with the designation KGS-Number 1965. The castle's south wing served as a prison from 1854, adding another layer to its multifaceted history.

Adjacent to the castle, visitors can explore the Musée gruérien, the district's history museum, and the Chapelle de Notre-Dame de Compassion, a baroque pilgrimage chapel. The castle's garden, documented since 1722, was transformed into a public park in 1999, providing a serene space for reflection and relaxation.

The Castle of the Bishops of Lausanne is not just a historical monument; it is a living testament to the region's rich heritage. Its walls echo the stories of power struggles, economic ambitions, and the resilience of the people who have called it home. A visit to this remarkable site offers a unique journey through time, making it an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.