"Veytaux...The Castle of Chillon" Veytaux by amsterdam_vallon

The origins of the castle go back a long way in the past. The first written reference was made in 1160, although it is known that the rock on which the castle was built had been inhabited in antiquity. This is easily explained by its strategic position controlling the narrow passage between lake and mountains, on this major northsouth route. The former presence of a Roman outpost is very likely (roman coins and debris were found during excavation work on the Chillon rock, in 1896. Even if we know nothing about the reputed existence of a castle in the early Middle Ages, the fact remains that the oldest constructions on the lower parts go back to the 11th century ...
From the middle of the 12th century, Chillon castle belonged to the Counts of Savoy. It was completely modified and considerably enlarged in the 13th century, over the existing foundations.

Getting close to the Castle

The 13th and 14th centuries are Chillon's truly golden era. The favou rite summer residence of the mighty Counts of Savoy, keeping watch on the mountain side over the road to Italy, and turned towards their homeland on the other side of the lake, Chillon played a major role in the subtie stratagems of its owners. The castle as it stands today, the inner courtyards, the storage rooms and gaois, the magnificent great halis, the Camera Domini, the St. George's Chapel, all go back to this period, as do the castlets military structure and court organisation.
The occupation of Vaud by the Bernese, from 1536 to 1798, has left visible marks, mostly in decoration and maintenance. Since Vaud became independent in 1798, Chillon castle has belonged to the Canton.

In the Romantic Era, 19th century, the castle of Chillon attained fame through many narratives told by writers and poets such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Shelley, Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, and most of all Byron. Inspired by the story of Bonivard's imprisonment in the 1 6th century, the latter wrote the poem 'The Prisoner of Chillon" which is known throughout the world.

The Chillon Castle

No Swiss historic monument is better known throughout the world. It has become a symbol of our country, representative of its beauty, the harmony of its shape and the visibie strength and stability it exudes. Built on the water's edge, Chillon is unique with one side a fortress facing the ancient road to Italy, the other a princely residence facing the Lake of Geneva.

Entry rates and opening hours 2004 :
Adult, self-guided
CHF 10.00
Child from 6 to 16 years inclusive, selfguided
CHF 5.00
Reduced rate rate for holders of local guest cards, students, EUROS < 26 cards, apprentice, senior citizens (over 60 years old), military, several promotions (presenting a money-off coupon or an available card), selfguided
CHF 8.00
Family (parents with their own children or their grandchildren, from 6 to 16 years old), selfguided
CHF 24.00

Guided Tour (only for individuals), at 11.30 am and 3 pm from June 19th 2004 to September 19th 2004, in French and in English, additional charge per pers. (free for children until 16 years old)
CHF 6.00

Openning Hours :
January,February,November,December
10 am to 4 pm (exit closes at 5 pm)
March to October
9.30 am to 5 pm (exit closes at 6 pm)
April to September
9 am to 6 pm (exit closes at 7 pm)

• In a nutshell:Impressive medieval castle...