Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg: A Medieval Fortress in Alsace

Rising dramatically from the crest of a hill, Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is a testament to centuries of Alsatian history. Originally built in the 12th century by the Hohenstaufen dynasty, the castle strategically guarded medieval trade routes between France and Germany. Over the centuries, it fell into disrepair, suffering destruction in the Thirty Years' War. In the late 19th century, German Emperor Wilhelm II undertook a controversial restoration, aiming to revive the Middle Ages and mark the western boundary of the German Empire. The restored castle, inaugurated in 1908, blends Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Today, it stands as one of the most visited sites in Alsace, drawing visitors with its imposing pink sandstone structure and panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see the Alsace Plain, the Black Forest, and even the Swiss Alps. Inside, a signed route guides you through the castle's various rooms, revealing furnished chambers, ancient drawbridges, and informative displays. The castle also features a restaurant with regional and medieval dishes.