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The Three Castles of Eguisheim: A Glimpse into Medieval Alsace

Explore the ruins of the Three Castles of Eguisheim, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Alsace's medieval history.

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Perched atop the Schlossberg hill, the Three Castles of Eguisheim offer a captivating glimpse into Alsace's medieval past. These sandstone ruins, dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries, provide stunning views of the surrounding plains and a tangible connection to the region's rich history.

A brief summary to The Three Castles of Eguisheim

  • Eguisheim, 68420, FR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths to the castles are uneven and involve some steps.
  • Visit on a clear day to enjoy the best views of the Alsace plain.
  • The site is only accessible on foot from mid-November to mid-March.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the village center of Eguisheim, follow the signs towards the 'Trois Châteaux'. The walk is uphill and takes approximately 30-45 minutes. The path is well-marked but can be steep in places. No costs involved.

  • Driving

    From Colmar, take the D83 towards Eguisheim. Upon arriving in Eguisheim, follow the signs for 'Route des Cinq Châteaux'. This road leads to a car park near the castles. Parking des Marronniers costs 4€ for the day. From the car park, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the castles.

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Discover more about The Three Castles of Eguisheim

The Three Castles of Eguisheim, known locally as Les Trois Châteaux d'Eguisheim, stand as silent sentinels overlooking the picturesque village of Eguisheim and the vast Alsace plain. These aren't singular castles, but rather the ruins of three distinct castle keeps: Wahlenbourg, Dagsbourg, and Weckmund. Each castle has its own story, contributing to the complex history of this strategic location. Wahlenbourg, the oldest of the three, dates back to 1006 when it was built by Hugues IV, Count of Eguisheim. Legend has it that Bruno of Eguisheim, who later became Pope Leo IX, was born within its walls. The castle was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout the centuries. Dagsbourg, to the north, was constructed around 1144 but met a similar fate of destruction in 1197 during a revolt. Weckmund, the southernmost castle, was primarily a lookout and rampart, separated from the others by a dry moat. Today, visitors can freely explore the ruins, which are accessible via a short walk from a nearby car park. The site offers panoramic views and a chance to imagine life in medieval Alsace. The pink sandstone remnants evoke a sense of history and provide a unique perspective on the region's cultural heritage. While the castles were largely destroyed in 1466 during the War of the Six Oboles, the remaining structures and staircases offer a glimpse into the past. The site is the starting point of the 'Route des Cinq Châteaux' (Five Castles' Road) which covers more than twenty kilometers and also links the castles of Hohlandsbourg and Pflixbourg.

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