Girsberg Castle

Perched on an almost inaccessible rocky spur opposite St Ulrich Castle stands Girsberg Castle. Built around 1250 by the Ribeaupierre family, this small structure with a pentagonal keep was likely intended to strengthen the defense of the neighboring fortress. Unlike other castles in the region, it never served as a residence for its builders.

In the early 14th century, it was enfeoffed to the noble Girsberg family, from whom it takes its name. It is also known by the names Petit-Ribeaupierre, Giersberg, or Guirsberg depending on the era and spelling.

The remains visible today reflect several construction periods. The pentagonal keep, square in plan inside, is built of stone, granite, and sandstone. Dating from the 13th century, it was classified as a historic monument in the 19th century. Next to it, the living quarters, consisting of two buildings, one following the irregular contours of the rock, are flanked by a semicircular tower. These structures, along with the outer bailey, date from the 14th century.

Access to Girsberg Castle is exclusively on foot via a marked hiking trail called the "Three Castles Circuit," which follows the GR5 path. The hike can start from Place de la République in Ribeauvillé or from the Lutzelbach parking lot. The walk takes about two and a half hours.