Castle of the XIIth century, fortified in the XVth and become museum in 1871 with collections of weapons and furniture, guided tours proposed
Built in the 12th century, the Haut-Kœnigsbourg castle exerts a fascination which is not denied. Dominating the Alsace plain from the top of its 757 meters, this proud strategic stronghold has been passed from hand to hand during its long history. Built by the Hohenstaufen in 1147, it was destroyed in 1462 and entrusted to the Tiersteins who rebuilt it and gave it the definitive name of Hohkœnigsbourg. During the Thirty Years' War, the castle was plundered and burned by the Swedes and then abandoned for two centuries. In the 19th century, when Alsace was under German rule, its restoration was initiated by William II. In 1901, a specialist in medieval fortifications took charge. His name was Bodo Ebhardt. In order to carry out his task, he listed the archaeological remains collected on the site, studied archival documents and referred to other castles of the same period. Currently, various tours are offered: thematic, unusual, theatrical. The medieval garden can be visited from May to September. Throughout the year, events are organized and give life to this magical place. In addition to the Night of the Bat and the Night of the Museums, the program of events is constantly renewed. The castle can be reached from the Sélestat train station by a shuttle bus that runs on weekends and holidays from March to December, and every day in high season.
Further information
Opening time and information on UPPER KŒNIGSBOURG CASTLE
Open all year round. Closed on 1 January, 1 May, and 25 December. Detailed timetables: consult the website. Free up to 6 years old. Adult: 9 €. Child (from 6 to 17 years old): 5 €. Group (20 people): 7 €. Free on the 1st Sundays from November to March and during the European Heritage Days. 2 € for people with disabilities for access to the audiovisual interpretation area. Holiday vouchers. Tourism & Handicap Label. Visitors' aids and activities for the disabled are available all year round. For more information, please contact us by phone or on the Internet. Guided tour (audio-guide 4,50 €). Catering. Free parking. 6 parking spaces reserved for the disabled.
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Members' reviews on UPPER KŒNIGSBOURG CASTLE
Belle balade. Et point de vue magnifique
L'équipe du Haut-Koenigsbourg
L'équipe du Haut-Koenigsbourg
L'équipe du Haut-Koenigsbourg
L'équipe du Haut-Koenigsbourg
Si vous y allez tôt le matin, vous pouvez vous garer près de l'entrée du château et faire attention aux personnes à mobilité réduite ou ayant des difficultés à marcher car le parcours comporte de nombreux escaliers. Le site web indique qu'il y a plus de 300 marches.
L'équipe du Haut-Koenigsbourg