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La Maison des Têtes: A Colmar Landmark

Explore Colmar's iconic Maison des Têtes: a Renaissance masterpiece with a facade adorned with expressive sculptures and rich history.

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La Maison des Têtes, or House of Heads, is a prominent historical landmark in Colmar, France, known for its unique facade adorned with over 100 grotesque masks and sculptures. Built in 1609 in German Renaissance style, it stands as a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage.

A brief summary to La maison des têtes

Local tips

  • Take your time to examine the intricate details of the 106+ heads adorning the facade; each one has a unique expression.
  • Visit the Maison des Têtes during different times of the day to appreciate how the changing light enhances the architectural details.
  • Consider dining at one of the restaurants in the building to experience the blend of historical ambiance and modern cuisine.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    La Maison des Têtes is located in the heart of Colmar's old town, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Unterlinden Museum, walk northeast on Rue Unterlinden, then turn right onto Rue des Têtes. The Maison des Têtes will be on your left. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train at Colmar train station, take bus lines A, B, C, D, or F to the 'Théâtre' stop. From there, walk southwest on Rue des Unterlinden, then turn right onto Rue des Têtes. The Maison des Têtes will be on your left. A single bus ticket costs €1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Colmar. A short taxi ride from the Colmar train station to La Maison des Têtes typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and time of day.

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Discover more about La maison des têtes

La Maison des Têtes, located at 19 Rue des Têtes in Colmar, is a captivating historical landmark renowned for its distinctive architecture and intriguing history. Constructed in 1609 for Anton Burger, a local shopkeeper, the building is attributed to architect Albert Schmidt, who also designed other notable structures in Colmar. The house derives its name from the 106 (or 109, depending on the source) small heads or grotesque masks that embellish its facade, a characteristic feature of German Renaissance architecture. These expressive sculptures contribute to the building's unique character and have made it one of Colmar's most recognizable symbols. The facade also features a three-story oriel window, adding to its architectural grandeur. The gable is adorned with volutes and a statue of a cooper (Tonnelier), created in 1902 by Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty. The statue was commissioned by the Wine Exchange, which occupied the building in 1898. La Maison des Têtes has undergone restoration, including a significant project in 2012. Today, the building houses a 5-star hotel and two restaurants, blending historical charm with modern amenities. Visitors can admire the architecture, explore the hotel, and dine in its restaurants.

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