Billens Castle

The lords of Billens were mentioned from the first half of the 12th century. Peter and Engicius of Billens were benefactors of the Abbey of Haut Crêt. In 1270, Wilhelm of Billens was Abbot of Haut Crêt, while his brother belonged to the chapter of Lausanne. The lords of Billens were vassals of the Bishop of Lausanne and the Governor of Romont. Through marriage, the lordship passed to the House of Gruyères in 1365 thanks to Margerite of Grandson. It was incorporated into that of Palézieux in 1402. In 1402, it was sold to Richard of Illens, then the rights were given to Michel of Eisen. From the Illens family, it passed into several hands until the end of the 15th century. In 1648, it became the property of the Gottrau until 1798.

By testament dated March 26, 1864, Jean Pache, former Fribourg State Councillor, bequeathed his Billens Castle to the State of Fribourg to establish a branch of the Cantonal Hospice for the benefit of the municipalities forming the Glâne district. The Billens Hospice opened on November 29, 1866, with 15 beds. A wing was added to the castle for the chapel, kitchen, and dependencies. In 1898, the southwest wing was built, which included the large dormitories. The hospice then had 37 beds. In 1914, the north wing was enlarged with an operating room. The main transformation of the hospice was undertaken in 1936. In 1956, it became the hospital of the Glâne district. In 1964, the hospital was enlarged with a new wing. Its capacity then reached 200 beds with geriatrics. In May 1988, a new construction was erected, which included a protected operating center and a circular wing dedicated to the home. The works were completed in 1993, allowing for additional rooms in August 1996 for home care and domestic help. Thus, the Glâne health network was created.