Château de Lichtenberg, Lichtenberg, France

The Château de Lichtenberg is first mentioned in 1206, as home to the Lords of Lichtenberg. The Lichtenberg line passed to the Hanau family, who became the Counts of Hanau-Lichtenberg.

In the late 16th century, Phillip IV of Hanau-Lichtenberg hired Daniel Specklin, who had designed the fortifications of Strasbourg, to turn the castle into a fortress to use and protect against a new weapon, cannons. In 1678, the castle capitulated to French troops after an eight-day siege. Like most of the castles in the Alsace region, it came under the control of the Kingdom of France.

On 7–9 August 1870, during the course of the Franco-Prussian War, the Château de Lichtenberg was bombarded by artillery of Württemberg troops. A large fire broke out on the evening of 9 August, which destroyed much of the castle and forced its capitulation. In May 1871, the surrounding region was transferred to the newly formed German Empire.

From 1996, two architects, Andrea Bruno and Jean Pierre Laubal, led a long campaign of work to restore the old parts and to create a new space for cultural activities, shows and exhibitions. The castle is owned by the commune of Lichtenberg and is run by the Pays de la Petite-Pierre community of communes.

References:

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User Reviews

Tompa Hawk (2 years ago)
In summer they put loungers all over the place. Sitting there and enjoy the view is priceless. A perfect place for a date, even after 30 years of marriage.

Michael König (2 years ago)
This spot is ideal for families, offering a range of amenities for kids and a pleasant atmosphere. The view from here is undeniably impressive, providing a picturesque backdrop for a relaxed outing. Overall, a recommended visit, especially for those with children.

Wella (2 years ago)
It was a nice drive through forests and meadows. Lovely villages at the bottom of the castle. There was a film that showed the usage of the castle in different decennia. Very interesting! Beautiful view for sure. Worth a visit!

Damien Barbot (2 years ago)
Top, ?

Jens Wagner (2 years ago)
Had lot's of fun with the kids. It rained heavy but we could make some games inside and went out later. The castle was interesting for kids and adults!

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Sigmaringen Castle

Sigmaringen Castle was first mentioned in the year 1077 in the chronicles of Petershausen monastery. The oldest parts of the castle are concealed beneath the alterations made during the 17th and the 19th centuries. The secret of the earliest settlement built on this defendable rock will never be fully revealed: large-scale excavation work would be necessary, which the extensive land development renders impossible. Judging from the many Roman remains unearthed in the area around Sigmaringen, the 12th century keep known as the 'Roman Tower' could be traced back to a Roman predecessor.

The castle remains that have been preserved (gate, great hall and keep) date back to the Staufer period around 1200. The castle remains were integrated into subsequent buildings. The foundations of the castle buildings are to a large extent identical to the surrounding castle wall.

These remains give us a good idea of how the castle might have looked during the 12th century.

Château de Lichtenberg

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