UPPER KŒNIGSBOURG CASTLE

Built in the 12th century, the castle of Haut-Kœnigsbourg exerts a fascination which is not denied. Hierarchically dominating the Alsace plain from the top of its 757 metres, this proud strategic stronghold has been passed from hand to hand over the course of its long history. Built by the Hohenstaufen family in 1147, it was destroyed in 1462 and entrusted to the Tierstein family who rebuilt it and gave it the definitive name of Hohkœnigsbourg. During the Thirty Years' War, the castle was looted and burned by the Swedes, after which it was abandoned for two centuries. In the 19th century, while Alsace is under German rule, its restoration is initiated by William II. In 1901, a specialist in medieval fortifications took charge. His name is Bodo Ebhardt. To carry out his task, he catalogued the archaeological remains collected on the site, studied archive documents and referred to other fortified castles from the same period. At present, various visits are offered: thematic, unusual, theatrical. The medieval garden can be visited from May to September. Throughout the year, events are organized and bring this magical place to life. In addition to the Night of the Bat and the Night of the Museums, the programme of events is constantly renewed. The castle can be reached from the Sélestat train station by a shuttle bus that runs on weekends and public holidays from March to December, and every day in high season.