A fortress rooted in the Vosges
Perched on the heights of the commune of Haegen, in Bas-Rhin, the Grand-Geroldseck castle embodies medieval architecture in all its splendor. Classified as a historical monument since 1898, this site steeped in history offers visitors a unique glimpse into the fortresses of the Vosges massif. Its ruins, witnesses of a rich past, stretch over a platform that skillfully blends seigneurial residence and defensive strategy.
To access this historical gem, simply reach Saverne, then follow the D171 to the Haut-Barr parking lot. From there, a marked path with a red Saint Andrew’s cross guides the curious to the site.
A history marked by the power of the Geroldseck
Founded in the early 12th century, the castle is the work of the lords of Geroldseck, advocates of the abbey of Marmoutier. These influential lords built this fortress to protect the vast territories of the abbey. Over the centuries, the castle underwent several notable modifications, between the 13th and 15th centuries, to meet the military and residential requirements of the time.
In 1285, Alice of Louppy-le-Château, wife of Waleran of Geroldseck, is mentioned in the accounts of the trouvere Jacques Bretel, recounting the famous tournament festivities of Chauvency. Waleran met his death a few years later, in 1289, in the Black Forest, during a tragic episode shared with Emich of Linange.
A robust and ingenious architecture
Among the still visible remnants, the square keep stands out with its impressive walls, three meters thick, and its rubble masonry. This master tower, erected around the year 1200, symbolizes the ingenuity of medieval builders.
The cellars of the grand seigneurial residence and the remains of the barbican also testify to the dual function of the castle: to provide a comfortable dwelling for its occupants while ensuring effective protection against attackers.
An invaluable testimony to Vosges heritage
The Grand-Geroldseck castle remains an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts and hiking lovers. Its ruins invite an immersive exploration in the heart of the Vosges, where each stone seems to whisper tales of yore. This site, which has survived the centuries, continues to fascinate with its raw beauty and its crucial role in regional history.
By visiting the Grand-Geroldseck, one immerses in the legacy of a time when strongholds dominated the landscapes, embodying both the power and the vulnerability of their occupants.
