Château de Wildenstein, Medieval fortress in Kruth, France.
Château de Wildenstein is a medieval fortress rising on a granite rocky outcrop at 666 meters elevation, commanding views of the Thur Valley in Alsace. The ruins display circular towers and walls from different building phases that cling to the steep cliff face.
The fortress began in the 14th century when Count Ulrich III of Ferrette received permission to build on the mountain. After destruction, buildings were rebuilt in the 16th century by the Abbey of Murbach, which added circular towers and a chapel.
The name refers to the wild nature and stone of the mountain where the fortress sits. Visitors today can see the chapel dedicated to the Holy Cross, which reflects the religious life of those who once lived here.
Visitors reach the ruins through a tunnel carved into the rock and then follow a path from the parking area by the lake. The terrain is steep and requires good shoes and some endurance, so plan enough time and bring appropriate gear.
Beneath the fortress runs an underground passage that completely crosses through the rock and reaches the lower courtyard. This hidden tunnel shows how skillfully builders used the natural rock formations to create concealed entrances.
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