Cultural Heritage

Castle and Collegiate Church

An iconic architectural ensemble of the city of Neuchâtel.

Castle & Collegiate church Neuchâtel
Castle & Collegiate church Neuchâtel. © Vincent Bourrut
For lovers of old stones and sublime panoramas, take a step up to appreciate this essential part of the thousand-year-old city.

At the origin of Neuchâtel
Flamboyant yellow limestone, spires reaching for the sky, white facades, turrets and a covered walkway: the Castle and Collegiate Church have stood side by side since the 12th century and form an emblematic ensemble, proudly enthroned on their rocky spur. You have to walk from east to west and from south to north to discover all the nooks and crannies: hidden courtyards, flowery cloisters, stone walkways and graceful turrets.

Viewpoints
Because of its dominant position, the Castle and Collegiate Church offer astonishing views of the surroundings. The most spectacular one plunges from the esplanade over the roofs of the historic centre to the lake. To the east and north, the walkway takes you through contrasting areas of vegetation, old stonework and views of the more recent districts. Don't miss the footbridge and the path that leads to the Ethnography Museum for a complete tour of the site.

A lively place
A popular historical site, the district is not content to be a witness to the past. It lives in harmony with its time and its inhabitants. It is not uncommon to see petanque players on the west side of the esplanade, or a State Councillor coming out of his office, as the cantonal government has its headquarters in the Castle. In summer, don't miss a drink on the picturesque café terrace at the foot of the southern façade of the building to enjoy a unique view of the city and the lake.
Good to know
Good to know

- Sentry walk accessible from the south of the castle or the north of the cloister

Cultural Heritage

Neuchâtel Castle

This late 10th century building is the landmark of the town of Neuchâtel.



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Cultural Heritage

Collegiate Church

Made of the yellow limestone typical of Neuchâtel, this magnificent 12th-century monument illuminates the city



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Activities around the castle and the Collegiate Church
Guided tour, Neuchâtel

Discover the Belle Epoque in the city of Neuchâtel!

On a hill overlooking the town and lake, the must-see historical monument of Neuchâtel.

Guided tour, Neuchâtel

Take the little train through the historical streets of this lakeside city.

Culture & Museums, Neuchâtel

A new walkway to go around the Castle of Neuchâtel on the hillside.

Fun & Adventure, Neuchâtel

With family, friends or your class, come and discover Neuchâtel in the Belle Epoque.

Guided tour, Neuchâtel

Discover the monument of the Counts and Countesses of Neuchâtel in augmented reality.