Porte de Munster: A Medieval Gateway to Turckheim's Past

Step through Turckheim's Porte de Munster, a medieval gate steeped in history, from its defensive past and somber witch trial connections to its role as a pilgrimage stop.

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Porte de Munster (Obertor)

The Porte de Munster, also known as the Obertor (Upper Gate), stands as a proud testament to Turckheim's rich medieval history. Constructed in the 14th century, this imposing gate once served as a crucial defensive structure, complete with a drawbridge and portcullis. Beyond its military function, the Porte de Munster holds a darker significance, as it was the route taken by those accused of witchcraft on their way to execution. Today, the gate welcomes visitors to explore Turckheim's charming old town, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. Its sturdy architecture and historical importance make it a must-see landmark for anyone visiting this picturesque Alsatian village, inviting exploration of the town's well-preserved medieval character.

A brief summary to Porte de Munster (Obertor)

1 Rue des Tuileries, Turckheim, 68230, FR
Visit website

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during the Night Watchman's rounds (May-October) for a unique historical experience.
Look for the scallop shell decorations on the inner facade, indicating Turckheim's role as a stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
Explore the nearby Grand Rue for wine tasting opportunities at local cellars.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Turckheim (e.g., the Tourist Office at Rue Wickram), the Porte de Munster is easily reachable on foot within a few minutes. Orient yourself towards the main church, Église Sainte-Anne, and follow the signs towards the old town walls. The gate is located on Rue des Tuileries, a short walk from Place de la République. The walk is mostly flat and paved.
Public Transport

If arriving by bus from Colmar (Trace lines 8 or 25), disembark at the 'Turckheim' stop on Place de la République. From there, walk east towards the old town. Pass the fountain and the Corps de Garde (Tourist Office) on your left. Continue straight onto Rue des Tuileries. The Porte de Munster will be directly ahead. A single bus ticket costs around €2. Public transport is available, but walking is generally more convenient due to the short distances within Turckheim.
Driving

If arriving by car, parking is available outside the old town walls. Several free parking areas are located along the Route d'Ingersheim and near the train station. From these parking areas, it's a short walk (5-10 minutes) to the Porte de Munster. Be aware that parking inside the old town is restricted to residents only. Parking is generally free, but during peak season (summer and Christmas markets), it can be challenging to find a spot. Consider arriving early or using the parking area near the train station, which is slightly further but usually has more availability.

Discover more about Porte de Munster (Obertor)

The Porte de Munster, or Obertor, is more than just a stone structure; it's a portal into the heart of Turckheim's captivating past. Erected in the 14th century, around 1315, after Turckheim was granted the status of a city within the Holy Roman Empire by Emperor Henry VII, the gate formed a vital part of the town's fortifications. Its primary purpose was defense, equipped with features like a drawbridge and a heavy portcullis to protect the inhabitants from invaders. The gate controlled access to the town, ensuring only those permitted could enter after nightfall or during times of unrest. However, the Porte de Munster's history is not solely defined by defense and security. It carries a somber association with the era of witch trials. Accused individuals were led through this gate on their final journey to the 'Wann,' the execution site where they met their fate. This grim chapter adds a layer of complexity to the gate's story, reminding visitors of the darker aspects of Turckheim's past. Despite its defensive and judicial roles, the Porte de Munster also served a more benevolent purpose. The presence of scallop shell decorations on its inner facade indicates that Turckheim was a stopover point for pilgrims on the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago). These pilgrims, journeying to the shrine of the Apostle St. James the Great in Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain, would have passed through the gate, seeking rest and sustenance in the town. The architecture of the Porte de Munster is a blend of strength and subtle artistry. Constructed from sturdy stone, the gate features a tall, arched entranceway, flanked by solid walls and topped with a small bell tower. This bell, still intact, was not only used to signal the time but also to warn the townspeople of approaching storms. The coat of arms of Turckheim, featuring a silver shield with a red gate, is prominently displayed, a symbol of the town's identity and independence. Today, the Porte de Munster stands as one of three remaining gates that once encircled Turckheim, the others being the Porte de France and the Porte de Brand. These gates, along with the preserved sections of the ramparts, offer a tangible connection to the town's medieval past. Walking through the Porte de Munster is like stepping back in time, allowing visitors to imagine life within the walled town centuries ago. As you approach the Porte de Munster, take a moment to appreciate the surrounding architecture. The half-timbered houses, adorned with colorful flowers, create a picturesque setting that is characteristic of the Alsace region. The narrow, cobbled streets wind their way through the old town, inviting exploration and discovery. Once through the gate, you'll find yourself immersed in the heart of Turckheim. The town's main square, with its fountain and the 16th-century guardhouse (Corps de Garde), is a focal point for visitors. From here, you can explore the Grand Rue, the main street lined with wine houses offering tastings of local Alsatian wines. Turckheim itself is a treasure trove of historical and architectural gems. The Town Hall, dating back to the 16th century, is a fine example of Renaissance architecture. The Church of St. Anne, with its Romanesque tower, is another notable landmark. And don't miss the Courtyard of the former Abbey of Munster, a reminder of the town's early religious history. For a unique experience, visit Turckheim between May and October and witness the Night Watchman's round. Every evening at 10 pm, a watchman dressed in traditional garb patrols the streets, calling out the hour and ensuring the safety of the town. This tradition, dating back centuries, provides a glimpse into Turckheim's living history. Beyond the town itself, Turckheim is ideally located for exploring the Alsace region. The Alsace Wine Route, with its charming villages and rolling vineyards, is a must-see for wine lovers. The nearby Vosges Mountains offer opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. And the city of Colmar, with its museums and cultural attractions, is just a short drive away. The Porte de Munster is more than just an entrance to Turckheim; it's a symbol of the town's resilience, its rich history, and its enduring charm. Whether you're interested in medieval fortifications, witch trials, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a picturesque Alsatian village, the Porte de Munster is a destination that will leave a lasting impression. It invites you to step back in time, explore the hidden corners of Turckheim, and discover the stories that lie within its ancient walls. A visit to the Porte de Munster is an invitation to experience the magic of Alsace and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Château fort de Vaudémont

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L’Alsaciette

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Domaine Paul Blanck

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Route des Vins d'Alsace

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Les Grandes Maisons d'Alsace

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1 Pl. Rapp

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Mambourg

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château d'eau

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Maison Wildungshof

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Kempfeneck

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Pl. des Dominicains

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Puits de 1584 à Colmar

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Maison au 4, rue Saint-Martin à Colmar

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Zum Kragen

6.5 km

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Adolph House

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Unmissable attractions to see

Musée Mémorial des combats de la Poche de Colmar

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Musée Mémorial des combats de la Poche de Colmar

CELLAR TURCKHEIM

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Discover the authentic flavors of Alsace at Cellar Turckheim, where tradition meets exquisite wine in a charming setting.

Château de Pflixbourg

2.5 km

Explore the medieval ruins of Château de Pflixbourg in Alsace, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Castle Wineck

2.6 km

Explore the historic Château du Wineck in Katzenthal, Alsace: a medieval castle surrounded by vineyards, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Alsatian heritage.

UGolf d'Ammerschwihr

4.3 km

Experience the beauty of Alsace at UGolf d'Ammerschwihr, where stunning landscapes meet exceptional golfing challenges and local culture.

Jean Baptiste Adam

4.6 km

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village d'Eguisheim

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The Three Castles of Eguisheim

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Square des Malgré-nous

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Sentier de l'écureuil

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Eguisheim

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Domaine Emile Beyer - Vins d'Alsace

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Musée du Vignoble et des Vins d'Alsace

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Domaine Charles Baur

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Domaine Joseph Gruss & Son (Fine Wines of Alsace)

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Discover the authentic taste of Alsace at Domaine Joseph Gruss & Son in Eguisheim, where family tradition meets exceptional wines in a charming and picturesque setting.

Domaine Joseph Gruss & Son (Fine Wines of Alsace)

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Vins d'Alsace Hubert KRICK

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Domaine Pierre Adam | Vins d'Alsace

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Wine Estate of the city of Colmar

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Roi des Vins Colmar

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Wolfberger - Cave Eguisheim

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Wolfberger Boutique Colmar

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Vignoble André Scherer

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Les Vitrines de Colmar

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Boutique Zig Zag, artisans créateurs alsaciens

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Des Petits Hauts

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PYLONES

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Le petit Souk Colmar

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Boutique Marine-Laure ( magasin de prêt à porter féminin )

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Boutique Marine-Laure ( magasin de prêt à porter féminin )

The Store

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Le Hameau

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Nightclubs & after hour spots

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Cotton Club

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Black Velvet

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Collis Martis

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shmeio

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LE ROTA CLUB

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AM EVENTS | Bar & Tapas à Colmar

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K CLUB

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L Evasion

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Nis Club

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Gérardmer discothèque

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Discothèque le Caveau

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Discothèque Le Black Pearl Club

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Zenith Night

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Le Papillon

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Porte de Munster: A Medieval Gateway to Turckheim's Past

A brief summary to Porte de Munster (Obertor)

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Unlock the Best of Porte de Munster (Obertor)

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Porte de Munster (Obertor)

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Château fort de Vaudémont

L’Alsaciette

Domaine Paul Blanck

Route des Vins d'Alsace

Les Grandes Maisons d'Alsace

1 Pl. Rapp

Mambourg

château d'eau

Maison Wildungshof

Kempfeneck

Pl. des Dominicains

Puits de 1584 à Colmar

Maison au 4, rue Saint-Martin à Colmar

Zum Kragen

Adolph House

Unmissable attractions to see

Musée Mémorial des combats de la Poche de Colmar

CELLAR TURCKHEIM

Château de Pflixbourg

Castle Wineck

UGolf d'Ammerschwihr

Jean Baptiste Adam

village d'Eguisheim

The Three Castles of Eguisheim

Square des Malgré-nous

Sentier de l'écureuil

Eguisheim

Domaine Emile Beyer - Vins d'Alsace

Musée du Vignoble et des Vins d'Alsace

Domaine Charles Baur

Domaine Joseph Gruss & Son (Fine Wines of Alsace)

Essential places to dine

Auberge du Brand

Taverne Alsacienne

Restaurant Julien Binz

Au Vieux Porche

Auberge les 3 Alsaciennes

Côté Vigne Restaurant

Caveau du Schlossberg

La Table d'Olivier Nasti

Restaurant Brasserie l'Auberge

Restaurant du Château

Restaurant Lyd'île

Restaurant La Vieille Forge Colmar Kaysersberg

Restaurant L'Essentiel

LE SILEX

Le 20 ème

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Vins d'Alsace Hubert KRICK

Domaine Pierre Adam | Vins d'Alsace

Wine Estate of the city of Colmar

Roi des Vins Colmar

Wolfberger - Cave Eguisheim

Wolfberger Boutique Colmar

Vignoble André Scherer

Les Vitrines de Colmar

Boutique Zig Zag, artisans créateurs alsaciens

Des Petits Hauts

PYLONES

Le petit Souk Colmar

Boutique Marine-Laure ( magasin de prêt à porter féminin )

The Store

Le Hameau

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

LS Bar

The Little Roof

La Folie