Saint-Hippolyte brings together a long architectural history and discoveries related to its fortifications, church and wine. Its history is especially tangible at the surviving fortification wall: a large part of it often forms the rear wall of later buildings. This makes it possible to view the fortifications and the later development of the town together.

Fortifications and historical connections

The fortification wall of Saint-Hippolyte is first mentioned in 1313; it probably dates from the first quarter of the 14th century. The Tour des Cigognes stands at the southeastern corner of the complex. It is the only former flanking tower of the fortifications to have been fully preserved. The wall thus tells of a larger complex, while the tower represents a specific part of it that has survived intact.

Another historical connection leads to the Gare du Kaiser. It was built in 1903 to provide access to the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. This adds a distinct aspect of the château’s development at the time to the architectural history of the fortifications.

Church, chapel and fountain

The different phases of construction can also be distinguished at the parish church of Saint-Hippolyte. The 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 cautious dating of the choir and the information about the construction of the nave provide two different chronological reference points for the church.

The Chapelle Sainte-Croix stands at the southeastern entrance to Saint-Hippolyte. A fragment of the True Cross is kept and venerated there. The fountain of Saint-Hippolyte offers another connection to the town’s history: by decree of 11 May 1932, it was listed as a historic monument. Together with the church and chapel, it shows that the town’s historical themes are not limited to the fortifications.

Wine and outdoor activities

At Domaine Fahrer et fils, the focus is on the cellar and the history of wine. A guided tour takes visitors through the cellar and to the old underground wine barrels, while introducing the history of the winery, which has developed over four generations. The cellar visit includes a tasting of five wines and an introduction to the secrets of winemaking. A food-focused tour also pairs five wines with a platter of cheese and charcuterie, using local, fresh and seasonal products. Check the tour options before booking.

The Grand Cru Gloeckelberg includes a 20-are vineyard plot in Saint-Hippolyte. It faces south to southeast and lies on granitic soil. While the cellar experiences describe visits and tastings, the size, orientation and soil characterize the vineyard plot—two different aspects of wine in Saint-Hippolyte.

For a walk, the marked Chemin Wall follows a route along the outside of the fortification walls. Another activity is trout fishing in the forests of Saint-Hippolyte in the direction of Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg; seasonal regulations may vary. A walk by the fortifications and an activity in the forests thus offer different ways to explore the area.

Discover more destinations: Gunsbach, Durrenentzen, Luttenbach-près-Munster, Freland, Wettolsheim, Metzeral, Pfaffenheim, Biesheim

For the broader travel overview: Haut-Rhin.