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| Sweeping Vistas from the Castle Tower |
Thun Castle ⭐(German: Schloss Thun) is a medieval castle in the city of Thun. It was built in the 12th century and is a Swiss heritage site of national significance.
The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the city of Thun and Lake Thun. It is a four-towered fortress with a central keep. The castle was originally built by the Dukes of Zähringen, who ruled the region in the 12th and 13th centuries.
The castle played an important role in the history of Thun. It was besieged on several occasions, but it never fell. The castle was also used as a prison and a court of justice.
Thun from Above: Unveiling the City's Splendor from the Castle Heights (YouTube link)
Photo Gallery
On October 7, 2023, we ascended the winding stairs of Thun Castle. As we emerged onto the castle's towers, we were awestruck by the sweeping vistas of the city of Thun nestled amidst the emerald embrace of Lake Thun. A breathtaking tapestry of verdant valleys, shimmering lakes, and snow-capped peaks unfolded before us, painting a panorama that seemed to stretch to the very ends of the earth.
The Castle from a Distance
Exploring the Castle's Interiors
800 Years of Governors in the Thun Castle
Shortly befoer 1200, the Dukes of Zahringen begin the constuction of a large tower in Thun on the future castle grounds. In 1218, the Counts of Kyburg inherit the fortress, followed by the Neu-Kyburg counts in 1264. From 1384 to 1798, during the Bernese rule, the fortress, "Thun Castle", serves as the mayors' office and residence.
The Bernese regard themselves as successors to the nobles. Accordingly they continue to use old castles to affirm their authority. As a consequence, the Medieval tower of Thun Castle is preserved to this day.
Judgement
The mayor of Thun is the representative of the Bern City-state and bailiff of the Thun authority.
He performs duties as administrator, head of finances and taxes, military commander, and is also the judge.
Judge like an 18th century mayor according the the Medieval crimal law.
Which punishments go with what crime?
The scales of justice inform your judgement!
The Sword of Thun
The sword of Thun is one of the exceptional objects of the town hall collection. Its coat of arms, inscription and other markings refer tot he original use of the blade as a knight's sword at around 1300. The maker's markings indicate that the weapon was produced by a renowned weaponsmith in Passau.
The earliest documented execution by sword in Thun is in 1404. The last beheading takes place in 1816.
Burgundian Heraldic Tapestry
Miscellaneous
Views from Castle's Towers
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