Greifensee Castle, Greifensee, Switzerland

The Counts of Rapperswil probably built a defense tower in the early 12th century on the site of today's Greifensee Castle. The beginnings of Greifensee Castle, which was partially destroyed in May 1444 (during the so-called Old Zürich War), date back to around 1250. The castle complex consisted of a Palas on a rock , which at the time stood directly on the lake shore and was protected on the other sides by a moat and ring wall. In 1520, the Zürich Council decided to rebuild the ruins to a modest castle.

After thorough renovation, the castle is now available to the public for conferences, seminars, lectures, presentations, receptions, courses, small concerts, exhibitions, cocktails and private events (banquets, weddings). You may also rent single rooms only.

User Reviews

Pedro Constam (4 months ago)
Beautiful place at the lake!

Ross H (4 years ago)
Nice simple ‘castle’ but much more a beautiful big house. The gardens and park adjacent are lovely, especially right next to the lake. There is a bbq area and plenty places to sit. Great place to swim too. 10-15mins walk from the train station, with regular connections to Zurich and Uster.

Flavor Tucson (5 years ago)
Neat little castle on the lake with nice views!

Ursula K (5 years ago)
Beautiful historic castle that also houses exhibits and events once in a while. The location on the lake is beautiful. Nice to come here to walk or cycle.

Patricia Pierson (5 years ago)
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Photo from Flickr, copyright Staffan O Andersson

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Before the arrival of Christianity in Sweden, Gamla Uppsala was the seat of Swedish kings and a ceremonial site known all over northern Europe. The settlement was home to royal palaces, a royal burial ground, and a great pagan temple. The Uppsala temple, which was described in detail by Adam of Bremen in the 1070s, housed wooden statues of the Norse gods Odin, Thor and Freyr. A golden chain hung across its gables and the inside was richly decorated with gold. The temple had priests, who sacrificed to the gods according to the needs of the people.

The first Christian cathedral was probably built in the 11th century, but finished in the 12th century. The stone building may have been preceded by a wooden church and probably by the large pagan temple.

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