Gruyères Castle

The strategically positioned Gruyères Castle stands at the entrance of the Intyamon Valley, overlooking the Sarine Valley in the Fribourg Pre-Alps. Perched on a 115-meter-high hill, it controlled access to the valley and provided surveillance over Bulle, Charmey, and Grandvillard. Built in the prevalent Savoyard square plan, the castle features an esplanade developed in the 15th century, complete with a central well and remnants of a Gallo-Roman temple. The Saint John the Baptist Chapel, integrated into the site, dates back to the 13th century, with stained glass windows and a 15th-century altarpiece dedicated to Emperor Charles V.