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Majestic, it blends naturally into the waters of Lake Geneva. Without doubt one of the most famous silhouettes in the world, Chillon Castle is a symbol of Switzerland, a fine illustration of the country through the harmony of its forms (twenty-five buildings) and the impression of solidity and balance that emanates from it. A fortress resting on the water, a veritable bolt guarding the old road from Italy, an obligatory passageway - due to the narrowness of the site - on the north-south axis, it is also, facing the lake, a ducal residence. It's difficult to date this stronghold precisely, but the presence of a Roman post is attested by coins and remains found on the site. Throughout the Middle Ages, the castle was the seat of the powerful Counts of Savoy, who had established themselves in the region. In 1536, Chillon came to the attention of the Bernese bailiffs, who first made it their residence, before moving to Vevey in the 18th century. As the taste for social life spread, they began to feel bored within these solitary walls. Berne took pity on its bailiffs and bought the Tavel house in Vevey as their new residence. There was also talk of demolishing the Château de Chillon; fortunately, the cost was too high. Finally, the French Revolution led to the fall of Berne. In 1798, Vaud freed itself from Bernese control, and Chillon Castle has since belonged to the canton of Vaud.
On site: modern museography, temporary exhibitions, local wines for sale, souvenir store and beach.
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Photogénique, son musée et son atmosphère vous plongeront dans l'histoire particulière de cette région.