Discover the site

The ruins of Beauregard Castle, high up at the entrance to the Val d'Anniviers, tell an eventful story: that of a castle that was besieged several times and belonged to one of the most powerful ruling families of the Valais at the end of the Middle Ages.

Built between the 12th and the end of the 14th century, the castle served as a residential residence, a defensive retreat, a surveillance post and a storage place. Nothing is known about the builders of the initial tower fortifications. But in the course of time, further towers and fortification walls, as well as a circular cistern of unique construction, were added to reinforce the impregnable character of the rocky outcrop. The full potential of the site was used to make it as difficult as possible for the attackers. The enemy could only reach the castle via a steep, unprotected and winding path.

At the beginning of the 15th century, the castle became the seasonal residence of the Lords of Raron. They lived there temporarily, either to settle their business on site or to retreat here in case of a threat. In 1417, during the " Raron trade ", the castle of Beauregard was plundered and set on fire by the rebellious compatriots of the Valais. It was not rebuilt afterwards.

Activities

Visit the exhibition "Là-haut Da oben. Fortified settlements in the Valais, yesterday and today" at Schloss Leuk (Castle of Leuk). There you can admire a model of the site as well as finds from the archaeological excavations. The exhibition runs from May 20 to September 28 2022.