Place de l'Ancienne Douane: Colmar's Historic Heart

Place de l'Ancienne Douane, or Old Customs House Square, stands as a testament to Colmar's rich history and architectural beauty. This central square has been a focal point of Colmar's civic and commercial life for centuries. The square owes its name to the Koïfhus, or Ancienne Douane (Old Customs House), which anchors one side of the square.The Koïfhus dates back to 1480 and is Colmar's oldest public edifice and a prime example of medieval architecture. It played a crucial role in regulating trade along the Rhine River. The ground floor functioned as a warehouse and taxation point for imported and exported goods, while the upper floor hosted meetings of the Décapole, a federation of ten Alsatian imperial cities formed in 1354. Over the centuries, the Koïfhus has undergone several transformations, serving as a theater in the 19th century and later housing the first office of the Comptoir d'Escompte. Today, the Koïfhus hosts various public events and exhibitions, continuing its legacy as a vibrant center of Colmar's cultural life.The square is surrounded by a harmonious blend of colorful half-timbered houses that exemplify traditional Alsatian architecture. These buildings, with their intricate woodwork and vibrant facades, add to the square's visual delight. The Schwendi Fountain, created by Bartholdi, is located in the center of the square. During the Christmas season, the square hosts a charming Christmas market, with the Koïfhus illuminated in shimmering lights.