Saint-Maire Castle in Lausanne, Switzerland, historic fortress with stone walls and battlements

Place Du Château

Place du Château Lausanne: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Place du Château in Lausanne is a historic square nestled in the heart of the city’s Old Town, offering visitors a gateway to Lausanne’s medieval heritage and vibrant civic life. Dominated by the imposing Château Saint-Maire, the square has witnessed centuries of transformation, from its origins as a religious and defensive stronghold to its present role as the seat of the Vaud cantonal government. Today, Place du Château serves as both a scenic landmark and a lively civic hub, providing panoramic views over the city and Lake Geneva, and hosting cultural events and public ceremonies (fr.wikipedia.org; lausanne.ch; lausanne-tourisme.ch; switzerlanding.com).

Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or casual traveler, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan your visit: historical background, practical visitor information, travel tips, accessibility details, and highlights of nearby attractions.

History of Château Saint-Maire and Place du Château
Visiting Information
What to See and Do
Travel Tips
Cultural Events
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Recommendations
References

History of Château Saint-Maire and Place du Château

Origins and Early Development

The origins of Place du Château are closely tied to Lausanne’s ecclesiastical history. In the late 6th century, Bishop Marius (Saint Maire) moved the episcopal seat from Avenches to Lausanne, laying the foundation for the area’s religious significance (fr.wikipedia.org). Between 1397 and 1431, the Bishops of Lausanne constructed Château Saint-Maire as a fortified residence, emphasizing both spiritual authority and military defense (spottinghistory.com). Built atop Cité hill, the castle’s strategic position allowed it to dominate the northern approach to the city, featuring dry moats and drawbridges (vd.ch).

Reformation and Secular Authority

The Reformation in 1536 brought a seismic shift to Lausanne. Bernese forces took control, expelled the Catholic bishops, and converted Château Saint-Maire into an administrative center for their bailiff (lausanne.ch). This marked the transition from ecclesiastical to secular authority, with Place du Château becoming the region’s administrative heart.

Modern Era and Civic Role

Since 1803, following the establishment of the Canton of Vaud, Château Saint-Maire has served as the seat of the cantonal government (switzerlanding.com). Over the 19th and 20th centuries, renovations preserved its medieval character while adapting it for civic use (notrehistoire.ch). Today, it remains a symbol of Vaud’s autonomy and Swiss federalism.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

Place du Château (the square): Open 24/7, year-round.
Château Saint-Maire (exterior): Always visible; interior access is restricted due to its governmental function.
Special Interior Access: Guided tours or open days (e.g., during national heritage events) may allow limited interior visits; check official websites for dates (lausanne.ch).

Tickets and Entry

Square and Castle Exterior: Free entry.
Lausanne Cathedral: Free entry; tower access may cost CHF 5–10 (lausanne-cathedral.ch).
Guided Tours: May require prior booking and a fee for special events or tours inside the castle.

Guided Tours and Events

Occasional guided tours are available through the cantonal government or Lausanne tourism office, especially during heritage days (lausanne-tourisme.ch).
The square often hosts open-air concerts, art installations, and civic ceremonies.

Accessibility

Mobility: The square is pedestrian-friendly, with sloped walkways and some stairs. Main routes are manageable for most visitors, but cobbled streets may present challenges for those with limited mobility. Some areas are wheelchair accessible.
Transport: Easily accessible by public transit (metro and bus lines); parking garages available nearby, but walking is recommended to enjoy the Old Town (touristplaces.guide).

What to See and Do

Architectural Highlights

Château Saint-Maire: A prime example of medieval military architecture, renowned for its red-brick towers and crenellated walls. While the interior is not open to the public, the exterior offers excellent photo opportunities (Travel on a Time Budget).
Lausanne Cathedral: Switzerland’s largest early Gothic church, just steps away. The rose window and nave are highlights, and the belfry offers panoramic city views (lausanne-tourisme.ch).
Parliament Building: The neoclassical structure to the south serves as the seat of Vaud’s government, adding to the square’s civic gravitas.

Nearby Attractions

Esplanade de Montbenon: A scenic park with lake and mountain views.
Olympic Museum: A short bus ride away, featuring interactive exhibits on Olympic history.
Old Town: Explore the charming streets, cafes, boutiques, and historic stairways like Escaliers du Marché (switzerlanding.com).

Dining and Shopping

Brasserie du Château: Known for its beers and pizzas, perfect for a casual meal (Brasserie du Château).
Local Shops: The Old Town is full of artisan boutiques, chocolatiers, and wine shops with regional specialties (lausanne-tourisme.ch).

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn (May–June, September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Photography: Sunrise and sunset provide dramatic lighting for capturing the square, castle, and cathedral. Use descriptive alt tags for images if sharing online (e.g., “Panoramic view from Place du Château Lausanne”).
Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes for cobbled streets; bring layers or an umbrella for variable weather.
Local Etiquette: Respect quiet zones during government functions or religious services at the cathedral.

Cultural Events

Place du Château is a focal point for civic life in Lausanne, hosting official ceremonies, cultural celebrations, open-air concerts, and art installations. Major events often coincide with Vaud’s cantonal holidays or Swiss national heritage days. Check the local tourism calendar for up-to-date listings (lausanne-tourisme.ch).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Place du Château open to the public?
A: Yes, the square is open year-round, 24/7. The castle’s interior is generally closed except during special events.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, access to the square and castle exterior is free. Some guided tours or events inside the castle may require tickets.

Q: How do I get to Place du Château?
A: Easily reachable by foot from Lausanne Old Town or by metro and bus. Parking is available nearby, but walking is ideal for exploring the area.

Q: Is the area accessible for people with limited mobility?
A: Main routes to the square are manageable, though some cobbled streets may be challenging. Some paths and facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, especially during heritage days or by prior arrangement with the tourism office or government.

Q: What else can I visit nearby?
A: Lausanne Cathedral, Escaliers du Marché, local museums, Esplanade de Montbenon, and the Olympic Museum.

Summary and Recommendations

Place du Château and Château Saint-Maire represent the heart of Lausanne’s rich history—a blend of medieval architecture, civic life, and cultural vibrancy. The square’s scenic views, proximity to major landmarks, and lively atmosphere make it an essential stop for any visitor. While the castle interior is generally reserved for governmental functions, the surrounding area offers ample opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and immersion in Swiss heritage (lausanne.ch; vd.ch).

For a memorable visit:

Combine Place du Château with a broader Old Town itinerary.
Take advantage of guided tours or cultural events when available.
Download the Audiala app for interactive maps, up-to-date information, and exclusive content to enhance your experience.