Schadau Castle

Gothic revival in its best form since the turn of the century.

During the mid-19th century the Gothic style began to replace the classical styles of ancient Greece and Rome. Public taste had shifted away towards to the more picturesque and romantic style of the medieval period. This design style was often used in rural settings and fit well into the natural landscape. The features most recognized are the pointed arches, steeply pitched roofs and front facing gables with delicate trimmings. These structures look elegant and light and yet have intricate patterns and details covering almost all the surfaces. Schadau castle uses rich patterned brickwork on every facade of the building. The windows are arched and heavily decorated in the gothic influences. And yet the building is inviting without being over imposing.

Castle park
The castle park surrounds the castle that faces out looking towards lake Thun and the panoramic view of the Swiss alps. The park grounds are beautifully managed with large expanses of green and plenty of old trees to provide shade. The park is popular with locals and is the prefect place to relax on a hot sunny day.

Castle interior
Schadau castle is a hotel and does not allow visitors to see the castle interiors other than the hotel lobby and bar. You are however free to walk around the castle grounds and have a light lunch at the castle cafe while you enjoy the view of lake Thun. Besides providing logging for guests the hotel is also used for weddings, events and seminars. For more information on booking please contact the Schadau Castle Hotel directly or visit the website. www.schloss-schadau.ch

Brief history

It is situated in the Schaudaupark, and was built between 1846 and 1854 according to the plans of Pierre-Charles Dusillion in the Gothic Revival style, for the banker Abraham Denis Alfred de Rougemont.

Since 1925 the castle has belonged to the city of Thun and is now a hotel with restaurant. Between 1972 and 1992 the façade of the castle was renovated by the city's own quarrymen.

The oldest known surviving panorama was completed in 1814 by Marquard Wocher, and is on display at the Schadau Castle, depicting an average morning in the Swiss town of Thun. As of today it's owned by the Gottfried Keller Foundation.

Reference:
Wikipedia