Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle
Built in the 12th century, the Haut-Koenigsbourg castle has for centuries been the witness to conflicts and rivalries between lords, kings and emperors. The castle has had a succession of illustrious owners who have left their mark on its history, and numerous events that have changed its appearance... To pass through the high gate of Haut-Koenigsbourg is to plunge into the world of the Middle Ages.
From the lower courtyard - with its inn, forge and mill - to the spiral staircases leading to the furnished flats of the lord, discover the architecture, the furnishings... but also a whole atmosphere steeped in history.
The drawbridge, the weapons room, the keep and the cannons are a constant reminder of the purpose of this mountain fortress built by an imperial Germanic family in the 12th century, which was subsequently besieged, destroyed and pillaged.
Abandoned after 1633, this prestigious castle was offered in 1899 by the town of Sélestat to William II of Hohenzollern. He dreamed of resurrecting the old Germanic Empire and fulfilled his passion for the Middle Ages by entrusting the restoration of Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle to the architect Bodo Ebhardt, a specialist in medieval fortifications.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the political dimension of this major project was to legitimise the young imperial dynasty of the Hohenzollerns and affirm the power of the new empire in the eyes of the world. Today, we admire more the educational aspect of this restoration, which without being indisputable, is mostly plausible.
Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg
67600
Orschwiller
03 69 33 25 00
haut-koenigsbourg@alsace.eu
www.haut-koenigsbourg.fr
Visit of the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle (summer 2020, time slot reservation required)
Visit of the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle: the only medieval castle in Alsace to have been completely restored. A unique place not to be missed! To cross the high gate of Haut-Koenigsbourg is to plunge into the world of the Middle Ages. 900 years of history - The characteristic silhouette of Haut-Koenigsbourg castle has marked the Alsatian landscape for almost 900 years.
Visible from afar, the imposing fortress nestles at an altitude of almost 800 metres in the heart of the Vosges forest, dominating the wine route which winds at its feet and offers a grandiose panorama of the Alsace plain, the valleys and balloons of the Vosges, the Black Forest and, on a clear day, the Alps...
In the snow or in the middle of summer, discovering Haut-Koenigsbourg is a unique experience in all seasons. Standing on a rocky spur, it offers a grandiose panorama. Built in the middle of a forest, it offers a beautiful excursion.
Youngsters and families enjoy visiting a medieval fortress, while history buffs delve into the past of this Alsatian landmark and the curious are interested in the restoration of an exceptional monument.
Complément
The tour includes 300 steps of different heights and orientations.
Pushchairs are not permitted. If you are bringing small children, we advise you to bring a baby carrier.
Horaires d'ouverture
The château is open all year round except 1 January, 25 and 26 December.
January, February, November, December: 9.30am* - 12pm and 1.15pm - 5.15pm
March, October: 9.30am* - 5.45pm
April, May, September: 9.15am* - 6pm
June, July, August: 9.15am* - 6.45pm
*On Mondays the castle opens at 10.30 am
In the evening, last entry 1 hour before the castle closes.
Réservation
Online ticket purchases are recommended for individuals during peak periods. For Pass'Alsace holders, simply select the free ticket.
Public price
Adult : €12.00Kid : €8.00
Price with the pass
Adult : FreeKid : Free
Jack O'Lantern and the grimacing beetroot’ workshop - 23, 24, 30 and 31 October
From 23 to 31 October 2024
Halloween
Adult : €16.00 - Kid : €12.00
Jack O'Lantern invites you to the castle, dressed up as a family, for a workshop in which you can discover the origins of Halloween and then make your own grimacing beetroot... ! Immerse yourself in the story of Jack ‘O’ Lantern in a 2-voice, 6-hand production. Then set off to discover the origins of Halloween by competing in a wild quiz! Finally, dig up your old vegetables and light up the castle with your spooky creations! And don't forget to come dressed up!
Orschwiller
Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg
67600 Orschwiller
France
+33 (0)3 69 33 25 00
haut-koenigsbourg@alsace.eu
Witches and werewolves
26 October 2024 19:45
Halloween
Nocturne
Adult : €14.00 - Kid : €10.00
Immerse yourself in an extraordinary evening in the heart of Haut-Koenigsbourg castle, a place steeped in history and mystery.
This adventure takes you into a fantastic world where werewolves and witches lurk in the shadows. Working in teams, you'll have to use your wits, strategy and team spirit to solve the riddles scattered throughout the castle's dark corridors. As the evening progresses, you'll discover forgotten secrets and face challenges that will
test your courage and insight. Every nook and cranny of the castle could conceal a new challenge or reveal a crucial clue. Will you dare to enter this mysterious world and discover which creatures haunt the premises?
Experience the thrill of Haut-Koenigsbourg castle! Organised with Les passeurs de monde, Cirk et Toile
Orschwiller
Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg
67600 Orschwiller
France
0369332500
haut-koenigsbourg@alsace.eu
Accessibility
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Animals are not allowed except for guide dogs and assistance animals (upon presentation of proof). -
Pushchairs are not permitted. If you are bringing small children, we advise you to bring a baby carrier.
Access conditions
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Haut-Koenigsbourg shuttle bus from Sélestat station. Please ask for information on the days and times of operation. -
The Haut-Koenigsbourg castle is located 26 km north of Colmar, 55 km south of Strasbourg and 12 km west of Sélestat. Motorway A35 exit 17 via Kintzheim or 18 via Saint-Hippolyte. N59 via Lièpvre.