Maison Pfister, Alsace Wine Route Travel Guide

4.7 (425)

Discover Maison Pfister in Colmar, a captivating Renaissance landmark with stunning architecture, ornate frescoes, and a rich history, embodying the charm and prosperity of old Alsace.

Maison Pfister, a landmark in Colmar, stands as a prime example of Renaissance architecture in Alsace. Built in 1537 for the wealthy hatter Ludwig Scherer, its unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles captivates visitors with ornate wooden balconies, picturesque frescoes, and a distinctive octagonal turret. The exterior showcases biblical scenes and portraits of Germanic emperors, reflecting the prosperity of Colmar during the Renaissance. While the interior isn't always accessible, the exterior provides ample photographic opportunities and a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Located on Rue des Marchands, it's a short walk from other attractions like the Unterlinden Museum and Little Venice, making it a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts exploring Colmar's charming old town. Its well-preserved facade and central location make it an unmissable highlight.

A brief summary to Maison Pfister

11 Rue des Marchands, Colmar, 68000, FR
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Monday 10 am-7 pm
Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
Thursday 10 am-7 pm
Friday 10 am-7 pm
Saturday 10 am-7 pm
Sunday 10 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Maison Pfister.

Visit during the morning hours to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photographs of the facade.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Little Venice district for a complete Colmar experience.
Check local events listings; the square in front of Maison Pfister sometimes hosts markets or festivals.

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Explore Maison Pfister on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Maison Pfister, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Maison Pfister is centrally located on Rue des Marchands in Colmar's old town, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Unterlinden Museum, walk east along Rue des Unterlinden, then turn right onto Rue des Marchands. The Maison Pfister will be on your left. From the Colmar train station, it's approximately a 15-minute walk. Follow Avenue de la République towards the city center, then turn onto Rue des Marchands. The house will be on your right. The walk is mostly flat and pedestrian-friendly.
Public Transport

If arriving by bus, disembark at the Colmar Théâtre stop, which is close to the city center. From there, walk along Rue Kleber towards Rue des Marchands. Turn left onto Rue des Marchands, and Maison Pfister will be on your right. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.50. Alternatively, from Colmar train station, several bus lines connect to the city center. Take a bus to the 'Théâtre' stop and follow the walking directions above. A 'Billet Alsa + 24 heures Colmar Agglo' ticket, valid for 24 hours on all Colmar transport, costs €3.50.
Driving

If driving, navigate to Colmar city center. Parking near Maison Pfister is limited. Consider parking at Parking Rapp (Avenue de la République), a large car park a short walk away. From there, walk along Avenue de la République, turn right onto Rue des Unterlinden, and then turn right onto Rue des Marchands. Maison Pfister will be on your left. Parking fees at Parking Rapp are free for the first hour, then approximately €3.30 for 1.25 hours, with additional charges per 15 minutes. On-street parking is available in green and orange zones, costing approximately €1.40-€1.85 per hour, but spaces are limited. The Lacarre car park offers a flat rate of €3 per day.

Discover more about Maison Pfister

Maison Pfister, located at 11 Rue des Marchands in Colmar, is one of the city's most iconic and recognizable landmarks. Constructed in 1537 for Ludwig Scherer, a hatter who made his fortune in the Val de Liepvre, it represents an early example of Renaissance architecture in Colmar, blending medieval features with emerging Renaissance ideals. The house derives its name from the Pfister family, who restored it and resided there from 1841 to 1892. The architectural details of Maison Pfister are what truly set it apart. The building features a two-story corner oriel, an octagonal turret, and a long wooden gallery, all adorned with intricate mural paintings. These paintings, attributed to Christian Vacksterffer, depict various biblical and secular scenes, including portraits of 16th-century Germanic emperors, evangelists, and allegorical figures representing Faith and Justice. The use of sandstone from Rouffach and timber in its construction further emphasizes its Alsatian heritage. The house's facade is a visual feast, showcasing a blend of architectural styles and artistic expressions. The ground floor features arcaded openings, while the upper floors boast mullioned windows and cross windows. The oriel, a projecting bay window, is a particularly striking element, featuring curved Gothic-style stones on the lower level and a wooden balustrade gallery above. The octagonal staircase turret is topped with a bulbous dome, adding to the building's unique silhouette. Throughout its history, Maison Pfister has undergone several restorations to preserve its architectural integrity. The Judlin family, who acquired the house in 1892, initiated a restoration in 1909. A more comprehensive restoration took place in 1971, followed by a complete renovation of the facade and roof in 2012, ensuring that this historical treasure remains a prominent feature of Colmar's cityscape. Today, Maison Pfister stands as a symbol of Colmar, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its beauty and learn about its rich history. While the interior is not always open to the public, the exterior provides a captivating glimpse into the architectural and artistic styles of the Renaissance period. Its location on Rue des Marchands, a bustling pedestrian street in the heart of Colmar's old town, makes it easily accessible and a central point for exploring other nearby attractions. Visitors to Maison Pfister can also explore the surrounding area, which is filled with other historical buildings, charming shops, and traditional restaurants. The Unterlinden Museum, home to the Isenheim Altarpiece, is just a short walk away, as is the picturesque Little Venice district, known for its canals and colorful half-timbered houses. Colmar's central market, the Koïfhus (Old Customs House), and the Église Saint-Martin (St. Martin's Church) are also within easy reach, making Maison Pfister an ideal starting point for a comprehensive exploration of Colmar's cultural and historical treasures. The Maison Pfister's enduring appeal lies not only in its architectural beauty but also in its ability to transport visitors back in time, offering a tangible connection to Colmar's rich past. As one of the most photographed buildings in the city, it continues to inspire artists, historians, and travelers alike, solidifying its place as a must-see destination in Alsace.