Frankenbourg Castle

Perched on a conical summit reaching 703 meters, slightly isolated from the sandstone massif of Altenberg, the Frankenbourg Castle offers an exceptional panorama of the surrounding landscapes. This strategic natural lookout is located at the confluence of the Val d'Argent and Val de Villé valleys, just before their junction with the central Alsace plain. From here, it was possible to monitor the ancient Salt Route as well as the paths used for transporting silver ores and wines, major routes for the economy of the time. The view extends to Sélestat, Ortenberg, Ungersberg, the Champ du Feu massif, and many other regional landmarks. The construction of this fortress by the Counts of Frankenbourg probably dates back to the early 12th century. In 1196, the Frankenbourg-Werd family obtained the position of Landgrave of Lower Alsace, becoming the emperor's representatives in this region, equivalent to today's Bas-Rhin. Their coat of arms, still visible on the department's emblem, testifies to this past influence. However, the lineage quickly declined and the fief passed under the control of the Bishopric of Strasbourg in 1393. The castle was then entrusted to various families such as the Lützelsheim or the Uttenheim zum Ramstein, before being administered by the Grand Chapter from 1489 to 1789. Although still inhabited during the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), it was gradually abandoned from the 17th century. The last official mention of the castle dates back to 1634. Today, access to the path leading to the castle entrance and the keep platform is prohibited to the public until further notice, in accordance with a municipal decree dated April 30, 2025, following a technical opinion from the DRAC and a request from state services.