Castles and Palaces

Explore the architectural heritage of the Geneva region through its defensive towers, stately manor houses, and military archives. This selection ranges from the 13th-century stone tower of Hermance to the 18th-century estates of Céligny. Key sites include the Compesières Commandry, a primary seat for the Order of Malta, and the Château de Tournay, once owned by Voltaire. These landmarks illustrate the area's history as a strategic military hub and a center for European nobility.

Zeke / FAL

A

Old Arsenal

Former military arsenal. This beautiful historical building now serves as state archives.

Björn Sothmann / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Compesières Commandry

The Compesières Commandry is the main Commandry of the Order of Malta in the Canton of Geneva in Switzerland.

C

Château de Crans

Château de Crans is a manor house in the municipality of Crans in the Canton of Vaud in Switzerland.

D

Domaine de Garengo

18th-century manor house in Céligny, recognized as a Swiss cultural property of national significance.

E

Domaine de l’Elysée

18th-century manor house and estate located in the Genevan enclave of Céligny.

F

Château de Collex

Private 18th-century castle featuring classic architecture and surrounding agricultural land.

G

Château de Tournay

12th-century castle rebuilt in the 16th century, notable for its association with Voltaire who once owned the estate.

H

La Tour d'Hermance

13th-century cylindrical stone tower, the last standing remnant of a fortress built by the Counts of Geneva.

I

Château de Bossey

18th-century manor house and estate that serves as the headquarters for the Ecumenical Institute.