Aarwangen Castle

The origins of Aarwangen Castle date back to the 13th century, when the Lords of Aarwangen, initially vassals of the Zähringer and later the Kyburgs, erected the first castle complex. Its imposing keep, a mighty bulwark rising over 30 meters, dates from this early period. Around 1300, the castle took on the important function of protecting a bridge and securing a customs station. In the mid-14th century, sovereignty passed to the nobles of Grünenberg. In the early 15th century, the city of Bern acquired sovereign rights over the area, and in 1432, it purchased Aarwangen Castle. It became the seat of a bailiwick, which encompassed today's Aarwangen district. Over the centuries, the castle underwent numerous alterations and extensions, particularly in the 15th and 16th centuries, when the bailiff's building was constructed. In the 17th century, a stair tower and a Renaissance portal were added, and in 1624/25, the main tower received a Baroque crowning. During the upheaval of 1798, the castle was severely damaged but later restored and served as the seat of the district and judicial office. About 20 years ago, it was extensively renovated.

Aarwangen Castle is located in the municipality of Aarwangen in the canton of Bern, nestled in the Oberaargau region of Switzerland. It stands at an elevation of approximately 421 meters above sea level.

Today, Aarwangen Castle is privately owned. It was carefully restored about 20 years ago and presents itself as a well-preserved historical structure.

• Thunstetten Castle (Castle), approx. 4.5 km away
• Neu-Bechburg Castle (Castle), approx. 6.6 km away
• Wangen Castle (Castle), approx. 8.3 km away
• Bipp Castle (Oberbipp) (Castle), approx. 8.7 km away