Tourbillon Castle

Tourbillon Castle (Château de Tourbillon) is the ruined former residence of the bishops of Sion, the capital of the canton of Valais in Switzerland. The fortress sits on a hill and looks across the town to the Valère Basilica, which crowns the opposite hill. Together the two buildings form the signature skyline of Sion, recognisable from far away.

What is Tourbillon Castle?

Tourbillon was a bishops' castle and is now a permanent ruin. Its story is tied to the spiritual and political power of the bishops of Sion, who ruled this part of the Alps for centuries. It lies at roughly 46.236° N, 7.367° E, almost in the middle of town, on a rise that towers over the buildings below.

When and why was it built?

Bishop Boniface de Challant began construction around 1300. The castle was meant as the main residence for himself and his successors. Sources differ on the exact dates of individual building phases, so 1300 is best read as an approximate starting point.

In 1373 Bishop Guichard Tavel acquired the Majorie Tower, which stands below the castle. From then on it became the centre of episcopal power, and Tourbillon, according to one account, was relegated to the role of summer residence.

What happened in the 15th century?

In 1417, during the conflict with the Raron family, the castle was set on fire and partly demolished. Bishop William of Raron, who held office from 1437 to 1451, had the damaged sections rebuilt. That put the fortress back in service for several more centuries.

Why is it a ruin today?

The turning point came in 1788. The great fire that devastated much of Sion did not spare Tourbillon either. The castle was never rebuilt, and for more than two hundred years it has stood as you see it now: a picturesque cluster of walls and towers among the rocks.

Preservation and today

Consolidation work began in the late 19th century to halt further decay of the walls. In 1999 the bishopric of Sion handed the castle over to a foundation that looks after it. As a result the ruins remain open to visitors.

The most precious part of the interior is the chapel of St George and St Grat, where medieval wall paintings survive. It is one of the most rewarding stops on a visit.

What else is nearby?

On the neighbouring hill stands the Valère Basilica. It houses an organ from around 1390, regarded as the oldest playable organ in the world. Visiting both hills in a single day helps you picture medieval Sion: two episcopal strongholds watching over the valley from opposite sides.

Frequently asked questions

Is Tourbillon Castle inhabited or rebuilt? No. After the fire of 1788 it was never reconstructed and remains a ruin.

Who built the castle? Bishop Boniface de Challant began it around 1300 as a residence for himself and his successors.

What stands opposite the castle? The Valère Basilica, on the neighbouring hill in Sion.

What should I see inside? The chapel of St George and St Grat, with its medieval murals.

Who looks after the castle? Since 1999, a foundation to which the bishopric of Sion handed the site.

Was it damaged before 1788? Yes. In 1417 it was burned and partly demolished during the Raron conflict, then rebuilt.

Tourbillon suits anyone who enjoys medieval history, ruins with a view over town, and quiet walks on the hills of Valais. Plan it together with Valère, since the two sites complement each other as evidence of the bishops' former power and the turbulent past of the canton.