Vorbourg Castle (Ruin) (Delémont)

At the exit of the Delémont basin, where the Birs river carves its path, several castle complexes once stood. On a ridge sloping down towards the Birs valley were the remains of Beauregard Fortress, likely dating from the 10th century and serving as the original residence of the Counts of Saugern. A few minutes below this older site, a staggered fortress consisting of a double castle was built in the 12th century. The upper castle, named Béridier, featured a square keep that survived the earthquake of 1356. The lower complex, the Vorbourg (outer bailey), was probably built simultaneously with the upper one as its outwork and gave the entire fortress its name. It was severely damaged in the 1356 earthquake but, unlike the neighboring complex, was rebuilt. It is believed that the Counts of Saugern took up residence in this new complex after leaving Beauregard. After the extinction of the Counts of Saugern, the Vorbourg passed to the Counts of Pfirt and was acquired by the Bishop of Basel in 1271. Episcopal bailiffs subsequently resided at the Vorbourg. After partial destruction due to a feud and significant damage from the Basel earthquake, the lower castle was rebuilt, while the upper one remained in ruins. Severely damaged in the Swabian War of 1499, the Vorbourg lost its function as a residential and administrative seat. The bailiff and his staff moved to Delémont, and the buildings fell into disrepair. Later, at the request of the Delémont council, all buildings except the chapel were demolished. The chapel, however, was restored and expanded multiple times and is now a pilgrimage site.

The Vorbourg ruin is located in Delémont, in the district of Delémont, Canton of Jura, Switzerland, at an altitude of approximately 578 meters above sea level.

The ruin is accessible to visitors. Part of the former castle complex is now integrated into a pilgrimage chapel with a hermitage.