Also called Grand-Arnsberg, it is located in Moselle, south of the Hanau forest but only a few steps from the Bas-Rhin.
The Grand-Arnsbourg is built on a rocky bar about a hundred metres long and oriented north-south, cut in two by a fault. Most of the remains are concentrated on the northern rock, which is about fifty metres long and a dozen wide.
This part dates back to the twelfth century and is dominated in the middle by a square Romanesque keep whose diagonal is also oriented towards the attack to divert projectiles if necessary. This rather symbolic belfry has a humpback stone facing with a fine border and equipped with lifting holes, also called wolf holes. Like most of its rocky ledge peers in the area, the tower was uninhabitable, but served as an observatory, perhaps a dungeon, or a food store.
To the north of the same rock, the builder installed a wall that was both a shield from the Romanesque period and, later, a spur. This equipment was intended to protect the facilities of the summit platform from potential attackers.
The second rock is completely ruined and does not present particularly spectacular elements. Only the analyses of specialists allow significant archaeological interpretations.
Two adjoining farmyards, but from different periods, have been built at the eastern base of the bar. The castle complex was accessed from the northern portion, where the remains of the gate are still located. The remains of the outbuildings can still be found there. A well was built at the foot of the rock in the south courtyard.
Source: Châteaux Fort Alsace
Departure:
Rue de Zinswiller, 57230 Baerenthal
(Parking on your right coming from Zinswiller)
Walking time: +/- 2H
Signposting signposted Green Ring
