Château Saillon (Ruin)

The origins of the "old castle" of Saillon date back to the 12th century, when it was likely founded by a family of the same name. In the early 13th century, this family became dependent on the House of Savoy. Through an exchange in 1221, Thomas of Savoy acquired the castle from Aymo of Pontverre. Ten years later, in 1231, the Lords of Saillon exchanged the castle for Aigle Castle as a fief, thus transferring Saillon into Savoyard possession. Peter II of Savoy had the complex fortified around 1257, encircling the town and castle with a curtain wall. Around 1261, under master builder Peter Meinier, the keep was erected. Saillon, strategically located in the midst of the bishop's dominion, was used by the Savoyards, along with other castles like Saxon, Brignon, and Montorge, to secure their power. The fortress was repeatedly threatened by the Upper Valaisans and was severely devastated in 1384 during an uprising against Bishop Eduard. In the 15th century, the Lords of Raron sought refuge in Saillon under Savoyard protection from popular wrath. In 1475, during the Burgundian Wars, the "old castle" was completely destroyed by the Upper Valaisans.

The ruins of Château Saillon are located in Saillon, in the district of Martigny, in the canton of Valais, Switzerland, at an elevation of approximately 539 m above sea level.