The nationally significant site of Illens includes the remnants of the 12th-century fortress and the 15th-century castle.
Illens is situated on a cliff overlooking a meander of the Sarine, within the territory of the Swiss municipality of Gibloux in the canton of Fribourg.
When visiting the site, one might think that the large building dominating the esplanade is contemporary with the establishment of the place. However, it should be noted that the existence of the Lordships of Illens and Arconciel has been documented since the 10th century. The medieval fortress of the Lordship of Illens was built in the 12th century. It may have included a village. Opposite that of Arconciel, it held a certain strategic importance. For nearly five hundred years, through alliances and varying fortunes, these lordships passed, among others, under the influence of the Counts of Burgundy, Neuchâtel, Savoy, Gruyère, as well as under the governance of Their Excellencies of Fribourg and Bern. When Guillaume de la Baume, Chamberlain of Charles the Bold and King Charles VIII, took possession of the estate in 1455, the medieval fortresses of Arconciel and Illens were already in ruins. He built, on that of Illens, a castle without defensive purpose but equipped with all the comforts of an urban residence. In 1474, he was received with great pomp in Fribourg. But the Burgundian Wars turned this powerful neighbour into a dangerous rival. On 3 January 1475, Bernese and Fribourgeois seized his lands and took his castle in Illens. At the end of the Burgundian Wars, the Lordship fell to Fribourg.
The Illens Castle Association (ACI) has undertaken a large project for the conservation and enhancement of this exceptional historical heritage. Support this initiative by becoming a member of the Association, a patron, or a sponsor of this ambitious project.
Information
Association Château d’Illens
Case postale
1728 Rossens
Illens
1728 Rossens
