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Tower Museum of Thieves: A Glimpse into Medieval Justice

Explore medieval justice and local history in Riquewihr's chilling Tower Museum of Thieves, a unique and immersive historical experience.

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The Tower Museum of Thieves, or Tour des Voleurs, in Riquewihr, France, is a pentagonal tower built in 1550 that once served as a prison. Today, it delves into the grim reality of medieval justice and torture, showcasing a guardroom, torture chamber, and a medieval home. Visitors can explore historical films and descend through a brewer's house for an immersive experience.

A brief summary to Tower Museum of Thieves

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a less crowded and quieter experience.
  • Take your time to read the informative panels to fully understand the history of the tower and its prisoners.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the charming streets of Riquewihr to experience the village's unique atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Tower Museum of Thieves is located at 14 Rue des Juifs in the heart of Riquewihr. From most points within the village, it's easily accessible on foot. As you walk through the charming streets, follow signs towards the center of town. The tower is situated on a street known for its historical architecture. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from a nearby town such as Colmar, the RIQUEWIHR - Poste bus stop is the most convenient. From the bus stop, walk along the Rue du Général de Gaulle into the town center, then turn onto Rue des Juifs. The museum will be a short walk away. A single bus fare from Colmar to Riquewihr costs approximately €3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Riquewihr, and a ride from the outskirts of the village to the Tower Museum of Thieves would be a short trip. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for a short taxi ride within Riquewihr. Uber is also available.

  • Parking

    If arriving by car, parking is available in public lots around Riquewihr. The closest parking to the city center is Parking des Charpentiers. From the parking lot, it is a short walk to the Tower Museum of Thieves. Parking rates average around €3.50 for one hour. A municipal parking card can be purchased from the tourist office for €4 per day.

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Discover more about Tower Museum of Thieves

Housed within a 13th-century medieval tower that was part of Riquewihr's fortifications, the Tower Museum of Thieves offers a chilling glimpse into the history of crime and punishment in the Middle Ages. Originally a defensive structure built in 1291 and updated in 1335, the tower became one of the city's prisons from the 15th to 18th centuries. Inside, visitors can explore an authentic torture chamber, complete with a 6-meter deep oubliette (dungeon) and the pulley used in strappado, a brutal form of torture. The guardroom displays a collection of torture instruments, offering a stark reminder of the methods used to extract confessions. The museum also connects to a 16th-century winemaker's house, providing a glimpse into civilian life during that era. The house features a kitchen with antique utensils, a bedroom with period furniture, and a cellar showcasing tools used by coopers and wine producers. This combination of the grim prison and the domestic life offers a unique perspective on the history of Riquewihr. Climb the tower's spiral staircase to the top for a panoramic view of Riquewihr's rooftops, surrounding vineyards, and the Vosges mountains. The museum not only displays historical objects, paintings, and engravings but also hosts lectures and events to promote the region's history and culture.

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