Ramstein Castle

Built in 1293 by Otto von Ochsenstein, the grand bailiff of Alsace, Ramstein Castle was initially a simple tower before expanding into a full castle. Constructed to support the siege against the powerful neighboring Ortenbourg, it later passed into the hands of the Zorn de Bulach family before being devastated by the people of Strasbourg in the 15th century, and then destroyed again by the Swedes during the Thirty Years' War. Today, only two sections of the residential tower walls remain, where several levels, a fireplace, and a large niche-shaped arrow slit facing Ortenbourg can still be seen. This arrow slit, the largest in Alsace, was designed to accommodate a giant crossbow capable of firing at the neighboring castle. The ruins also include the outer wall and two small towers rebuilt in 1793 to defend the entrance to the Vosges. The site hosts rare flora such as biscutelle, unique in the region, as well as threatened species like perennial lettuce, noble yarrow, and the green lizard. To preserve this heritage, a team of volunteers called the “Veilleurs du Ramstein” regularly clear and reinforce walls, towers, and foundations. The castle remains inaccessible for safety reasons, but visits to the restoration site are sometimes possible during Heritage Days.