The Sierck Castle has stood proudly, for over a 1000 years, above the little town of Sierck les Bains, in the region of the 3 borders. It isn’t the most well preserved Medieval castle you can visit in the region, but it sure is a nice one to visit for a change of pace.
Sierck Castle has lived through centuries of tumultuous European history. Let’s see what such history entails and what it means for its architecture.
A bit of history
The Sierck Castle was built by the Duke of Lorraine who favored it as a residence for generations, mainly from the XI to the XVII centuries. They did not live in such castle permanently. We discussed this habit of having several fortified residences, when considering the many reasons why there are so many castles in Europe.
So when the Dukes of Lorraine were not there, the castle was protected by the Sierck family. We talked about them and their growing influence in the region, when visiting the Malbrouck castle.
Considering the castle is today commonly named after them, you can imagine how important the Siercks’ must have been.
With its strategic position overlooking the Moselle valley, it withstood many attacks. But it did not resist Louis XIV’s ambitions!
In 1643, during Thirty Years’ War, The Grand Condé was appointed by Louis XIV, to command against the Spanish in northern France. He besieged the Sierck castle and won the battle.
Following this, the treaty of Vincennes was approved in 1661 and Sierck with other towns, was given to France, to create the Royal Path: a corridor allowing the French army to have access to the Alsace region.
From there, the Sierck castle lost its residential attributes. Lots of it was destroyed, although some of its defensive features were rebuilt in 1705, only to be destroyed again just a few years later. And just to be destroyed again… and so forth!
What does this all means in terms of architecture and what you see today?
Good question, lets see…
A touch of architecture
First let’s go back to the castles origines.
Despite the archeological research done, it is unfortunately unknown when the castle was actually built. It is considered that it was built on the remains of a Gallo-Roman fortification which, as you know, is fairly common for castles. The castle was first mentioned in 1067 and most likely was very different in size than what you can see today.
As seen above, the Sierck castle was first built as a residence of the Duc of Lorraine family. But not much remains from the XI century constructions, as most of what can be seen today dates from the XV century with constructions added up until the XVIII century.
From a residential residence to a fortress to fight the enemy to a charming ruin, the fate of the Sierck castle isn’t exceptional really. What makes it fairly unique is that it isn’t just time that created what it is today. It didn’t just fall into ruins…
It was actually intentionally demolished. A lot of this was done by Louvois, Louis XIV’s war minister.
On its own, this isn’t completely new either. It was costly to keep a place like this and most likely considered better to demolished than leave it unattended. Why would you leave a fortified castle to your ennemies?! That’s silly!
So what makes it fairly less usual is that the Sierck castle was later rebuilt, renovated and rearmed several times, up until the 19th century. And this really shows how strategic its situation is!
Let’s visit!
One part of the Sierck castle that I found fascinating is the Schall tower and you can see why below. But let’s start by the beginning of the tour…
At the entrance, you will be given a map which will guide you around the castle walls and then inside.
You will first see the artillery tower, the bakery where bread is still made, the Arsenal and, yes, some rustic toilets!
Click on the gallery below to see the pictures and description.
You will then reach what i found to be the must fun part and the most intriguing: the Schall tower!
Built in 1673 as planned by the Grand Condé, it is a surprising addition to the castle.
As you can see on the pictures below, it has 3 main floors where the third is a gallery accessible by a very narrow stair. It also has a basement with a torture room and unsurprisingly… its own ghost!
Again click on the pictures above to see the description and have a look at the little video below to maybe get a better idea.
Your tour continues on the curtain wall toward the Tour des Pères Récollets which vaulted ceiling are impressive.
The Powder room and remains of the 15th century wall are next and just before you get to finally see the inside of the castle…
Well, now it’s just mostly an empty space. But when you see such huge empty space inside the curtain walls, you realize how big the castle is and how many people must have lived there. It is impressive.
Conclusion of the visit
The Sierck castle is perfectly charming! I know, I know, I’m totally biased. It’s like I’m the reincarnation of an architect or a noble from the 19th century Romantic period!
Seriously though: the Sierck town isn’t really fairy tale like, but when you reach the castle, it’s like you are in a different world. Totally worth it, if you are visiting the area!
Info to plan your visit
The official website is: http://www.chateau-sierck.com
The site is unfortunately only in French so here are a couple additional info:
The castle is usually opened every day from mid March to mid-November. It cost around 6 euros for a regular visit. Do consider paying the extra 1 euro to get the special pass which will allow you to also visit the Malbrouck Castle. It is in a totally different state.
Access to trolleys and handicap persons is limited. There are stairs, little passage ways, etc.
The Sierck Medieval fair is usually held mid August. It is something!
You may need my Castle architecture mini guide during your visit!
Go ahead, it’s free to print!
