At an altitude of 450 meters, overlooking the Zorn Valley and the Alsace plain, the Haut-Barr Castle is much more than a simple medieval ruin. Its evocative nickname, “the eye of Alsace,” illustrates its strategic role and historical importance. Located near Saverne, this building tells several centuries of defense, architecture, and legends.
A etymological origin rich in symbols
First mentioned in 1112 under the name “Borre” or “Borra,” the castle owes its current name to linguistic evolutions. Derived from Celtic roots meaning “summit,” its name has changed over the centuries under the influence of German, becoming “Hohbarr” before being translated into French as “Haut-Barr.” This remarkable site bears witness to the cultural and linguistic richness of the region.
A strategic position in the heart of the Vosges
Built on a narrow rocky spur between the Alsace plain and the Zorn Valley, the castle occupied a key position to monitor the passage between Lorraine and Alsace. Nearby are other fortresses, such as the castles of Petit and Grand Geroldseck, attesting to the military importance of this region during the medieval period.
The Haut-Barr, composed of three rocky massifs connected by bridges, offered an exceptional panoramic view, essential for its control mission. This unique panorama inspired its nickname of “the eye of Alsace.”
A turbulent history
Constructed in 1170 by the bishops of Strasbourg, the castle underwent several transformations until the 14th century. Used as an observation post and defensive fortress, it was coveted, destroyed, and then restored several times. During the War of the Spanish Succession, soldiers briefly reoccupied this fortress despite its ruins.
Abandoned at the end of the 18th century, the Haut-Barr continued to intrigue and mark local history. In 1798, it even hosted a Chappe telegraph tower, a symbol of the new communication technologies of the time.
An architecture shaped by nature
The castle rests on a base of Vosges sandstone, a material extracted on site, easy to work with but sensitive to erosion. Its builders alternated between sophisticated stone-cutting techniques, such as those from the Romanesque period, and more rudimentary methods, particularly from the 18th century onwards.
The three main rocks that structure the castle present a fascinating geological composition, combining fine sandstone and Savernien conglomerate. These natural formations, sculpted by time, give the site a majestic character.
The legacy of the Corn Brotherhood
In 1586, Jean de Manderscheid, Bishop of Strasbourg, founded at Haut-Barr the Corn Brotherhood, a festive society aimed at gathering wine lovers and celebrating local culture. This initiative highlights the symbolic role of the castle, not only as a defensive stronghold but also as a place of gathering and conviviality.
A site to discover today
Despite its ruined state, Haut-Barr Castle continues to attract visitors seeking history and breathtaking landscapes. The reconstruction of the Chappe telegraph tower allows one to imagine life on this site through the ages.
Each stone of this edifice tells a part of Alsatian history, intertwining defense, religion, and festive traditions. Haut-Barr remains an essential stop to understand the rich heritage of the Northern Vosges.
