Château de Pflixbourg, Vosges Mountains Travel Guide

The Château de Pflixbourg, located near Wintzenheim, stands as a testament to medieval architecture and history. Built between 1212 and 1219, the castle, also known as 'Blickisberc' meaning 'castle with a view', served as an imperial fortress, strategically positioned to monitor the entrance of the Munster Valley.Constructed under the order of Frederick II, the castle played a crucial military role, acting as a garrison to control the valley. Its pink sandstone walls and imposing keep, which emerges from the Wintzenheim Forest, create a picturesque and romantic setting. The castle's design features a pentagonal outer wall system and a circular tower, showcasing the architectural style of the era. Notably, the castle's entrance includes inward-curved curtain walls with arrow slits, a unique design feature in the region.Throughout its history, the Château de Pflixbourg was occupied by various figures, including imperial bailiffs and noble families. However, it was heavily damaged in the mid-15th century during a conflict and subsequently abandoned. Today, the ruins offer visitors a chance to explore the remnants of the castle, including the impressive fortifications and a well-preserved cistern with a capacity of 140 m3.The castle's strategic position also made it an important observatory during World War I. In 1968, it was listed as a protected historical monument, recognizing its cultural significance. Legend has it that the ghost of the White Lady of Pflixbourg, believed to be Countess Stéphanie de Ferrette, still roams the ruins.