Lutzelhardt Castle

The Lutzelhardt Castle dates back to the mid-12th century when the Duke of Lorraine had it built to protect the Sturzelbronn Abbey. In 1297, it became the property of the Counts of Bitche, who were responsible for guarding the Lorraine border. The site later came under the control of the Fleckenstein family in 1363, then Wirich de Hohenbourg in 1450. Occupied by the Duke of Lorraine's troops in 1570, the castle was finally abandoned in 1606. Its ruined state is still debated: some believe it was destroyed as early as 1525 during the Peasants' War, while others suggest its destruction occurred during the Thirty Years' War. Today, only ruins remain, including the remains of a square keep, several dwellings, a well, and a cistern-reservoir. Due to its fragility, access to the site is prohibited until further notice.