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Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle
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Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle perches at an altitude of 757 meters on a rocky outcrop in the Vosges mountains, overlooking the Alsace plain. Its origins date back to the 12th century, when it was built by the Hohenstaufen dynasty to strategically control the Rhine valley. After being destroyed by Swedish troops in 1633 during the Thirty Years' War, the fortress lay in ruins for over two centuries. In 1900, German Emperor Wilhelm II commissioned architect Bodo Ebhardt to carry out a comprehensive reconstruction of the castle in the historicist style. The project was completed in 1908, serving as a powerful symbol of German rule in Alsace at the time. Today, the castle provides a deep insight into medieval life and defensive architecture, while visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramic views from the ramparts that extend as far as the Alps on clear days.
- Location: Grand Est, France
- Top sights: Ancienne station de filtration d'eau potable · Moulin du Haut · Kuder
- Nearby: Sélestat (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 5 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 60 | 48 | 56 | 57 | 96 | 83 | 85 | 86 | 64 | 78 | 64 | 70 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The castle is situated at an elevation of 757 meters on the Staufenberg mountain in Alsace.
- It was destroyed in 1633 following a 52-day siege by Swedish forces.
- The reconstruction under Emperor Wilhelm II took place from 1900 to 1908.
- Architect Bodo Ebhardt relied on archaeological evidence to ensure a historically accurate restoration.
- The interior features the magnificent Kaiser's Hall, decorated with frescoes and grand furniture.
- Haut-Koenigsbourg is among the most visited historical landmarks in all of France.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle (10)
Kuder
Building remains, likely medieval in origin.
Église Saint-Georges
Church in the Haut-Rhin department, France, Gothic style.
Chapelle Notre-Dame-des-Douleurs
Chapel in the Haut-Rhin department, France, a simple religious building.
Église Saint-Hippolyte
Church in Saint-Hippolyte, Haut-Rhin, Alsace, France.
Witzigfelsen
Viewpoint overlooking the castle and the valley.
Château de Reichenberg🏰 castle
Castle in Haut-Rhin, Alsace, France, dating from the 13th century.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How can I get to Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle without a car?
Is the castle open in winter?
How long does a visit take?
Is there a restaurant at the castle?
Is photography allowed?
Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle: where is it located?
Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle: what is there to see?
Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle: when is the best time to visit?
Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
