Saint-Hippolyte: Fortifications, Church and Wine

In Saint-Hippolyte, the history of the fortifications, the building phases of the parish church and wine-related activities come together. These include a marked walk along the walls, guided cellar tours and trout fishing in the forests towards Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. The historic buildings and wine activities offer different focal points for your stay.

Fortifications and building history

The fortified wall was probably built in the first quarter of the 14th century; it is first mentioned in 1313. These are two different points in time: the construction date is probable, while the first mention dates to 1313. Much of the wall has survived and often forms the rear wall of later buildings constructed against it. The fortifications are therefore also of interest in their connection with later buildings.

The Tour des Cigognes stands at the southeast corner of the complex. It is the only former flanking tower of the fortifications to have been fully preserved. The marked Chemin Wall offers a walk along the outside of the fortified walls. Thus, the wall draws attention both to a single, fully preserved tower and to a path following its outer course.

Church, chapel and fountain

The different building phases can also be distinguished at the parish church. Its choir is considered the oldest part of the building and can be dated to the 14th century. The slightly newer nave was built from east to west in the 15th century. The cautiously dated choir and the nave built later thus represent two distinct periods in the church’s history.

The Chapelle Sainte-Croix stands at the southeastern entrance to Saint-Hippolyte. A fragment of the True Cross is kept and venerated in the chapel. May 11, 1932, is an important historical reference point for the Saint-Hippolyte fountain: a decree issued on that date listed it as a historic monument.

Wine tours and vineyard area

Domaine Fahrer et fils offers guided tours of the cellar and its old underground wine barrels. The history of the winery, spanning four generations, is also presented. The cellar visit includes a tasting of five wines and an introduction to the secrets of winemaking. A gourmet-focused tour also pairs five wines with a cheese and charcuterie platter, featuring local, fresh and seasonal products. Check the tour and tasting options before booking.

The Grand Cru Gloeckelberg is also part of Saint-Hippolyte’s winegrowing heritage. The vineyard covers 20 ares, faces south to southeast and lies on granitic soil. Its area, aspect and soil are specific characteristics of this vineyard.

Walks, fishing and transport history

You can fish for trout in the forests of Saint-Hippolyte towards Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. Seasonal conditions may vary, so check the available options in advance. Another way to explore the town’s history is the Gare du Kaiser: it was built in 1903 to provide access to Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. This historical purpose adds a later transport perspective to the medieval building history.

Discover more destinations: Colmar, Rammersmatt, Soultz-Haut-Rhin, Illfurth, Neuwiller, Zimmerbach, Illzach, Wahlbach.

For the overview of the wider region: Haut-Rhin.