Obernai, Medieval town in Alsace, France
Obernai is a medieval town in Alsace that sits on the eastern slopes of the Vosges mountains, with traditional half-timbered houses and stone ramparts throughout. The old town revolves around a central market square, where the Town Hall, grain hall, and Chapel Tower mark the main gathering point.
The town received its municipal charter in 1240 under Hohenstaufen rule and later joined the Décapole federation in 1354, establishing it as a key power in the region. This alliance strengthened its role as a trading and administrative hub during the medieval period.
The Market Square serves as the community's heart, surrounded by the Town Hall, grain hall, and Chapel Tower that reflect traditional construction styles. People gather here for regular markets and celebrations that define the town's social rhythm.
A weekly market runs every Thursday, offering fresh regional products and a lively setting to explore the medieval streets on foot. The town sits conveniently between Strasbourg and Colmar, making it easy to reach from either location.
A remarkable medieval well with six buckets remains in the town center, offering a glimpse into how water was distributed centuries ago. This structure is a rare surviving example of the practical systems that served the community's daily needs.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
