Chateau Haut Koenigsbourg

The moment you step over the threshold of the great door at Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, you find yourself in a whole new world: the Middle Ages. Cross the lower Courtyard with its inn, forge and mill then climb the spiral stairways leading to the Lord's furnished apartments. Plunge into an environment of architecture and furnishings steeped in history. The omni-present drawbridges, armoury, keep and cannons are a constant reminder of the purpose of this mountain fortress, which has been besieged, destroyed and pillaged numerous times since its construction. This prestigious fortress was abandoned after 1633, and then given to Kaiser Wilhelm II von Hohenzollern in 1899 by the town of Sélestat. He commissioned the architect Bodo Ebhardt, a specialist in medieval fortifications, to restore the castle. Its renovation satisfied his passion for the Middle Ages, whilst he dreamed of a return to the old German Empire. The political ambition of this huge renovation project, undertaken at the beginning of the 20thcentury, was to legitimize the newly forged Hohenzollern imperial dynasty, and create a symbol for the world of the power held by this new empire. Today, the restoration is admired more for its educational potential: although it is not altogether perfect, the result is undeniably authentic. Much to the delight of fortress enthusiasts, this restoration of the Haut-Koenigsbourg offers a remarkable insight into 15th century mountain fortresses in the Alsace region. Visit the artillery platform, also referred to as the Grand Bastion: an exceptional monument with a characteristic structure. Take the time to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view over the Alsace plain, the Vosges Mountains, the Black Forest and even, on a clear day, the Alps… The Haut-Koenigsbourg castle is one of the symbols of Alsatian heritage and a witness to the course of European history. Visitors from all horizons have the ideal environment to become more familiar with castle architecture, the Middle Ages and the early 20th century restoration through a wide choice of tours, activities and events. All year long, Haut-Koenigsbourg castle offers a rich selection of themes and tours so that you can delve into its tumultuous past, its incredible restoration and the high quality of its collections. An offering of tours is accessible to everyone, the whole year round. With the self-guided tour, the visitors discover the castle at their own pace, using a document presenting the history, architecture and restoration of the monument, or using an audio guide. Audio-tour : Follow the tour route on your own, listening to the audio guide commentary. Select parts of the commentary depending on your interests and the time you have available. Learn more about the castle or obtain more in-depth information. Guided tour : Set off on a tour of a medieval fortress restored in the early 20th century, accompanied by a guide. The highlight of this tour is the discovery of the historical and architectural aspects of the monument. Guided tours can also be arranged by prior appointment.