The name “Neuchatel” can be literally translated as "New Castle". It is an ancient Swiss town located on the shore of the lake with the same name. Neuchatel is one of the most interesting and popular tourist destinations in western Switzerland.
This place is full of various attractions - shops and restaurants, lake cruises and walks in picturesque surroundings – these are the main entertainments of the town. If you want to get acquainted with the historical legacy of Neuchatel, it is time to make a walk on a small tourist train. It will take you through the ancient streets of the town, and the guide will describe and show main architectural monuments of this place.
The old part of the town was built in the 16th century. However, the unique homes made of yellow limestone according to the best traditions of the Middle Age architecture are carefully saved till our days. Neuchatel Castle is the symbol of the city. Its west wing was built in the 12th century, and the remaining part of the castle was built during the 15th - 17th centuries. All tourists have an opportunity to walk through the corridors of the castle and see the stunning panorama of the town from the observation area located at the ramparts.
The oldest religious building of Neuchatel is the church named Eglise Collégial. It was founded in the 13th century and features 15 ancient sculptures with images of prominent noble people of the town on its territory. Both church and the memorial are made in the gothic style. You should also visit the building of Town Hall and attend an excursion to the oldest prison of Neuchatel - Tour des Prisons. The prison tower was a place of detention until the middle of the 19th century. Today this place is equipped with several observation areas that feature a magnificent view over the town. Don’t forget to visit the main fountains of the town – Fountains of Griffin, Leo and the Fountain "Banneret." These are true works of art and magnificent examples of the medieval sculpture.
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