La Bâtiaz Castle

Martigny, Switzerland, Switzerland

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La Bâtiaz Castle is a medieval fortress ruin perched on a rocky hill above Martigny in the canton of Valais, Switzerland, constructed in the early 13th century by Bishop Landrit de Mont of Sion to control the strategic Rhone Valley and the Great St. Bernard Pass trade route.

Captured by Peter II of Savoy around 1260 who added its prominent round tower, it changed hands repeatedly between Savoyards and Sion bishops amid regional power struggles, suffering damage during the Burgundy Wars and later conflicts before abandonment in the 16th century.

Today, this Swiss heritage site of national significance features well-preserved walls, a central donjon climbable for panoramic views, medieval torture exhibits, and a seasonal tavern serving period cuisine, accessible via a short hike.