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Maison Pfister: A Renaissance Gem in Colmar

Admire Maison Pfister, Colmar's iconic Renaissance house with stunning frescoes, an octagonal turret, and a rich history dating back to 1537.

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Maison Pfister, built in 1537, is one of Colmar's most iconic landmarks, exemplifying Renaissance architecture in Alsace. Admire its ornate woodwork, octagonal turret, and facade adorned with biblical scenes and Germanic emperors. While the interior is not generally open to the public, the exterior offers a captivating glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to Maison Pfister

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting to photograph the building's intricate details.
  • Explore the surrounding streets of Colmar's old town to discover other historical landmarks and charming shops.
  • Look for the small details in the facade's paintings, including biblical scenes, Germanic emperors, and the coats of arms of Colmar and Haute-Alsace.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Maison Pfister is located in the heart of Colmar's historic center, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the city. From the Unterlinden Museum, walk east along Rue des Unterlinden, then turn right onto Rue des Marchands. Maison Pfister will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train at Colmar train station, take bus line 4 towards 'Hohlandsbourg Le Village' and get off at the 'Théâtre' stop. From there, walk straight onto Rue des Marchands; Maison Pfister will be on your right. The bus ride is approximately 5 minutes, and the walk is less than 3 minutes. A single bus ticket costs around €2.

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Discover more about Maison Pfister

Maison Pfister, located at 11 Rue des Marchands, stands as a proud symbol of Colmar's rich history and architectural beauty. Constructed in 1537 for Ludwig Scherer, a wealthy hatter, it showcases the transition from medieval to Renaissance architectural styles in the region. The house is distinguished by its two-story corner bay window, a wooden gallery, and an octagonal turret. The facade is adorned with paintings attributed to Christian Vacksterffer, depicting Germanic emperors, biblical scenes, and allegorical figures. These colorful frescoes offer a glimpse into the values and social structure of 16th-century Alsace. Over the centuries, Maison Pfister has had several owners, including François Jean Pfister, whose family name it now bears. The Judlin family, who acquired the house in 1892, restored it in 1909, preserving its historical significance. The building's facade and roof were fully restored in 2012. While the interior is not typically accessible to the public, visitors can admire the exterior of Maison Pfister and explore the charming streets of Colmar's historic district. The building is conveniently located near other attractions, such as the Unterlinden Museum and Little Venice.

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