Château de Kaysersberg, Vosges Mountains Travel Guide

The Château de Kaysersberg, perched on a hill above the town, is a testament to the region's rich medieval history. Constructed around 1220 for Albin Woelflin, the imperial bailiff of Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, the castle played a vital strategic role in controlling routes across the Vosges Mountains towards Lorraine.Kaysersberg's imposing cylindrical keep, with walls over 4 meters thick, is one of the oldest round keeps in Alsace. After 1261, the initial curtain wall was replaced to better defend the castle. In the 14th century, it served as the residence of the imperial provost. The castle underwent modernization in the 15th century to adapt to artillery advancements. Besieged during the German Peasants' War (1524/25), it was later restored in 1583. Archaeological evidence suggests the castle was abandoned by the end of the 16th century.Today, visitors can freely explore the ruins of Château de Kaysersberg. A marked path from the town center leads to the castle, offering a pleasant walk through the vineyards. Ascend the 122 steps to the top of the keep for breathtaking views of Kaysersberg, the Weiss Valley, and even the Black Forest in Germany on a clear day.