Fischer (later von Reichenbach), founder of Fischerpost, in 1683. He redecorated the castle, and built the nearby brewery. The Reichenbach family's rule continued until 1830. Notable owners Rudolf von Erlach Rudolf von Erlach was born about 1285 and died about 1360. Historians are still debating whether Rudolf von Erlach was the person who led the Bernese on the Battle of Laupen. Nevertheless, he is legendary, known by everybody in Bern. His name became synonymous with bravery and loyalty. Little is known of von Erlach's life; he probably took part in Henry VII's campaign in Italy. In April 1340 after the success in the Battle of Laupen, in which 6,000 Bernese were able to overcome the superior forces of Freiburg, Rudolf von Erlach was hailed the leader of the Bernese in a campaign against Freiburg. According to the legend, Rudolf von Erlach was killed by his son Jost von Ruden in 1360. Beat Fischer von Reichenbach Fischer von Reichenbach was born, on May 23, 1641, in Bern. He died on March 23, 1698 in Bern. In 1675 he founded and kept a monopolising control of the first post service in Bern. The service was named for him "Fischerpost". The service operated until 1832. Beat Fischer von Reichenbach was knighted by Leopold I, Holy Roman Emperor for establishing postal services between Germany and Spain. In 1975 a postage stamp dedicated to Beat Fischer von Reichenbach was issued in Switzerland. The castle and the garden The castle was first documented at the beginning of the 14th century, when Rudolf von Erlach founded his dynasty's rule.Historical paintings and plans provide an opportunity for studying the changes in the design of the castle and it surroundings during more than a hundred years of its existence. The south east view, painted in 1669 by Albrecht Kauw, indicates that a small garden was present at the time. There were also some agricultural fields outside the walls. The castle remained in the possession of von Erlach family until 1530. There were few owners before it was acquired by Beat Fischer von Reichenbach. It was at this time that the castle underwent extensive reconstruction. In 1685, it was transformed to its current appearance and the French style gardens were built and the terraces extending down to the river were constructed. Some outbuildings were built, such as the brewery, which was added to provide for the Bavarian post office workers,