Lenzburg Castle

Lenzburg Castle (Schloss Lenzburg) rises above the old town of Lenzburg in the Swiss canton of Aargau. It is one of the region's best-preserved medieval strongholds and now works as a museum and cultural venue. This guide covers its history, what to see and how to plan a visit.

How old is Lenzburg Castle?

The fortress first appears in written records in 1077 and was the seat of the Counts of Lenzburg. When the line died out in 1173, the castle passed to the Staufer dynasty, then to the Kyburgs in 1230. In 1273 the Habsburgs bought it and kept a residence here until 1344.

Who lived here afterwards?

Bern took over in 1415. From 1442 until 1798 the castle housed Bernese bailiffs, the officials who governed the surrounding district. The Bernese coat of arms still hangs on the main gate next to the Habsburg one. In the 19th century the castle went into private hands: it held a boys' boarding school, then the homes of the Wedekind family, Augustus Jessup and the American polar explorer Lincoln Ellsworth. His widow, Marie Louise Ellsworth-Ulmer, handed the property to the public sector in 1956. Today it belongs to a foundation backed by the town of Lenzburg and the canton of Aargau.

What can you see inside?

The castle is part of Museum Aargau. Since 1987 it has displayed the canton's cultural-history collections, so rooms range from medieval halls to the living quarters of wealthy 19th- and 20th-century owners. Guided tours on the castle's past run during the season, and families can join activities such as dressing up as knights. A rose garden on the grounds makes a quiet place to rest after the rooms.

How do you get there, and when should you go?

The castle sits above the town, so the last stretch is a short uphill walk from the centre of Lenzburg. The town has rail links to larger Swiss cities. Spring to autumn is the best time: the museum runs its main season from April to October, the garden is at its best, and the castle is normally closed on Mondays. Check current hours and ticket prices on the Museum Aargau website before you travel.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lenzburg Castle open all year?

The main season is April to October. Outside it, access to the rooms can be limited, so look at the museum calendar first.

Are guided tours available?

Yes. Museum Aargau offers public tours on the castle's history, during the season including Sundays. Dates are listed on its website.

How long should I plan for a visit?

Allow around two hours for the exhibitions, courtyards and garden.

Is the castle suitable for children?

Yes. Family activities, including knight dress-up, are on offer, and the open courtyards and garden give children room to move.