Thun Castle

The medieval castle built in the 12th century sits high above the old town of Thun. Easily identifiable from afar by the towers in the four corners of its majestic keep, the castle offers a remarkable view of the city, the lake and the surrounding mountains. The keep’s five great halls host the historical museum, with a permanent collection containing many significant artefacts. 

Additionally, the special exhibitions room hosts annually changing exhibitions on topics relating to the region and its history. 

Originally a fortress 

The modern castle complex was originally a fortress. An archaeological excavation carried out in 2013 in the course of some construction work has confirmed that by the 12th century the castle had consisted of a residential building as well as an enclosing wall. 

A symbol of power 

After the not entirely peaceful annexation of the castle complex by the Dukes of Zähringen, Berchtold V oversaw the construction of the imposing keep. However, the von Zähringen never intended to live in the castle, but preferred to stay in their residence in Burgdorf. The mighty castle tower served mainly as a reminder of their power and influence in the region and over local trade routes. Moreover, the keep itself was not a suitable living space. Located at a height of 14 metres, the Knight's hall served as an impressive representative room and today it is one of the best-preserved halls of the High Middle Ages. 

From prison to a museum castle 

From the 12th century onwards the castle complex was the seat of the rulers of Thun and was constantly adapted to new uses. While the Counts of Kyburg did not undertake any significant changes to its architecture, the long rule of Berne up to 2006 saw some significant construction work, such as the addition of the regional court building to the castle complex. From the 17th century the keep also housed a prison until a new prison was built near the city wall in 1886. For some time the prison warden also sold tickets and served as a guard for the museum, which opened in the keep in 1888. 

After 800 years in public ownership, 2010 saw a significant change in the castle’s history. The city of Thun sold the properties in the castle grounds - with the exception of the keep. In 2014, a conference and education centre, a hotel and a restaurant opened, and the museum received a new entrance and an additional showroom.