Neuchâtel Castle

Description

Neuchâtel castle adjoins the collegiate church and overlooks the city. By following the circular path at the base of the outer walls, you get a general idea of the different parts of the building erected around a large courtyard and a smaller one, to the south. It can be accessed from Rue de la Collégiale or the cloisters.

The castle history dates back to the Roman age, but the first stone castle was probably built in the 11th or 12th century. It has been altered and rebuilt several times. From 1708 to 1848 it belonged to the Prussia.

The construction of the church began at the end of the 12th century and was completed in 1276. Facing the gates of the castle, the three apses are striking by the beauty of their Roman design. Only the south clock tower is ancient, the spire and the north tower being built in 1869.