Within the old stone walls of this 12th-century castle is a fascinating museum dedicated to Thun's ancient past.
Revel in the grandeur and splendor of Thun Castle, an ancient hilltop citadel that has towered above the city and Lake Thun since the 12th century. Once an administrative building, today's castle hosts a museum that explores thousands of years of the region's history. Wander through rooms filled with weapons, uniforms and medieval objects.
The museum is housed on six levels of the castle’s main tower and typically displays approximately 600 pieces from its collection of 15,000 objects. Start in the basement exhibition area which examines 900 years of urban development, then work your way up the building. On the first floor, see weapons from the Middle Ages and altar carpets from Thun churches from the 13th to the 15th centuries. The museum also features a collection of ceramics and an exhibition of antique toys.
The Knights’ Hall on the third floor is a historical gem. This well-preserved cavernous space was built in the Middle Ages and is one of the few of its kind that still survives. Go over and inspect its fireplace and chimney. Today, the hall is a venue for concerts and other special events. Visit the castle’s website for an up-to-date list of activities. Continue up one floor for exhibits that chart Thun in the 19th century and how military and tourism developed the region.
Then go to the top of the corner observation towers for spectacular views of Thun, Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps beyond.
Reach the castle by taking a short walk from Thun’s old town. There are no car parking facilities on site.
Thun is a mountain city, and the snowiest months of the year make it sometimes difficult to get to. With this in mind, the castle museum is open daily between February and October, and then only on Sundays for the remainder of the year. There is an admission charge, but children under six years of age get in for free. There are also discounts for family tickets and students. Be prepared to climb lots of stairs during your visit. There is no elevator.
