Prison tower and former prison

The Prison Tower and former prison (Tour des Prisons) in Neuchâtel stand on the hill above the old town, close to the castle and the collegiate church. One of the city's oldest structures, the tower first guarded the settlement and later held prisoners. It makes a good stop on a walk through the historic centre of this French-speaking Swiss canton.

What is the Tour des Prisons?

It is a medieval tower of yellow sandstone. According to sources, its lower part dates from around the 10th to 11th century, while the upper storeys were added in the 13th and 14th centuries. It began as part of the town's defences. As military threats faded, it was turned into a place of confinement, and a separate, later prison building was added next to it.

What is its history as a prison?

By the late Middle Ages the tower was Neuchâtel's main detention site. Trials took place nearby, and occasionally executions. During the republican revolution of 1848 it held political opponents. Nineteenth-century penal reforms closed the prison. The cantonal heritage service opened the former cells to the public for the first time during the 2012 European Heritage Days. A fire in 2015 led to repair works.

What can you see?

From outside, the heavy tower rises above the rooftops of the old town. On open days visitors have been able to see the interior, including a former prisoner's cell, narrow stairs and uneven floors. The neighbouring old prison shows how local justice changed over time.

What is planned for the site?

The city and canton back a plan to turn the complex into a centre for fantasy art, tied to the NIFFF film festival and illustrator John Howe. Proposals include exhibitions on several levels, a rooftop café and workshops on the top floor. The timetable is not fixed.

How do you get there, and what is nearby?

The tower stands above the old town on rue Jehanne-de-Hochberg, about a 15-minute walk from the railway station. The collegiate church and Neuchâtel Castle are a few minutes away on foot, so it fits naturally into a walk around the castle hill. Steep approaches and stairs make the site hard going for visitors with reduced mobility.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go inside? Access varies. The tower is opened for events and guided visits, so check with the local tourist office before you travel.

How old is the tower? According to sources the base dates from the 10th to 11th century and the upper parts from the 13th to 14th century.

Is it the same as Neuchâtel Castle? No. The castle and collegiate church are close by, but the prison tower is a separate building.

How long should I plan? A few minutes to view it from outside; about an hour including an interior visit.