Tourbillon Castle consists of the ruins of a fortified residence of the Bishops of Sion, built in the late 13th century on a rocky hill opposite Valère. Visitors walk up to explore the remains and enjoy the views over the town and the Rhône Valley.
Castles & forts
Main highlights
- Ruins of an episcopal castle dating from the late 13th century, perched on a hill above Sion
- Chapel of St George, decorated with 14th-century murals that are among the oldest in Switzerland
- Panoramic views over Sion, the Rhône Valley and the Alps from the top of the ruins
Overview
Tourbillon Castle was built in the late 13th century under Bishop Boniface de Challant. It served as both an episcopal residence and a fortress, and bears witness to the temporal power wielded by the bishops of Valais in the Middle Ages.
The castle suffered from the conflicts between the bishops and the people of Valais. It was set on fire in 1417 during a war, which explains its ruined state. It was listed as a historic monument by the canton of Valais in the early 20th century, ensuring its preservation.
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What to see and do
At the top of the hill, the ramparts and partially preserved towers give a sense of the original layout of the episcopal fortress. The remains still look imposing despite the damage sustained over the centuries.
The castle once housed a chapel dedicated to St George. Its 14th-century murals are among the oldest of their kind in Switzerland and offer a glimpse of medieval religious art in Valais.
From the ruins, the view stretches over Sion, the Rhône Valley and the surrounding Alps. This vantage point reveals the strategic position the bishops chose for their residence, facing Valère hill.
Practical information
Access : on foot from Rue des Châteaux (access restricted to residents’ vehicles), then via Place Maurice-Zermatten and a short path, around a 20-minute walk.
Parking : Parking de la Cible or Parking du Nord.
Visit duration : allow 45 minutes to 1 hour on site.
On site : guided tours are offered at certain times of the year.
Visitor tips
The climb is steep, along a rocky path that can become slippery in damp weather or after rain. Wear sturdy shoes.
In summer, the heat makes the climb demanding. Bring a bottle of water, especially on sunny days.
Nearby attractions
- The Valère Basilica, a fortified 12th-century basilica, is home to the oldest playable organ in the world.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral in Sion is the youngest medieval cathedral in Switzerland and the spiritual heart of the diocese of Valais.
- The Valais Nature Museum, in the heart of Sion, showcases Alpine biodiversity and the human impact on the environment.
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