In 1536, the Calvinist German-speaking city-state of Bern invaded Catholic French-speaking Vaud, and subjugated it. Bishop Sébastien organised a defence from Glérolles; but was unsuccessful, and fled. In 1798, the Vaudois rose up against their Bernese overlords; and, assisted by the French, threw them out, and established the Lemanic Republic. Grérolles Castle became the property of the people. In 1803, the Emperor Napoleon established the Swiss Confederation, under which Vaud was elevated to the status of a canton. The cantonal authorities promptly sold the castle into private hands. Its ownership has since changed several times. During the 19th and 20th centuries, it was converted from a fortress into a more elegant dwelling. When the castle was sold in 2010, the price was not disclosed, but has been estimated at 15-20 million Swiss francs.