Venthône Castle
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| Venthône Castle | |
|---|---|
| Noble-Contrée in Switzerland | |
 Venthône Castle and church | |
| Location | |
  Venthône Castle  Venthône Castle | |
| Coordinates | 46°18′27″N 7°31′55″E / 46.3075°N 7.5320°E |
| Site history | |
| Built | 13th century |
Venthône Castle is a fortified tower in the village of Venthône which is part of municipality of Noble-Contrée of the Canton of Valais in Switzerland. It is a Swiss heritage site of national significance.[1]
The castle tower probably dates to the 13th century. The knight, Peter of Venthône, is mentioned in 1243. He played a major role in the conflict between the Bishop of Sion and Peter of Savoy.[2] The tower is mentioned in 1268[3] when the child-less Peter and his wife gave their lands to William de la Tour and joined Hauterive Abbey and Maigrauge nunnery. Over the next century, the castle passed through several owners including other, related Venthône lines. By the 15th century the Venthône family had completely died out and the castle was acquired by the bishop of Sion. In 1421 it was owned by the Raron family.[2]
In 1600 the citizens of Venthône bought the castle and began renovating it. In 1609 a large wood paneled great hall was built, with a large stove from 1619. Since that time, the castle has remained the town hall of the municipality.[2]
