Medieval Festival of Hugstein Castle

The Hugstein Medieval Festival: Living History at the Summit of the Vosges

Perched at 390 meters above sea level on a rocky spur at the entrance to the Murbach valley, Hugstein Castle has dominated the towns of Buhl and Guebwiller since the 13th century. On even years, in June, the association Pro Hugstein brings these historic ruins back to life by organizing an immersive and family-friendly medieval festival, free and open to all. Founded to preserve and promote this heritage, the association has been working for over a decade to maintain the vestiges and transmit local history.

A Castle Steeped in History

Built around 1230 by Hugues, abbot of Murbach (1216-1238), who gave it its name, Hugstein served to protect the powerful Murbach Abbey against enemy incursions and to monitor the town of Guebwiller, which was always rebellious to ecclesiastical authority. The Alsatian prelate had been made a prince of the Holy Roman Empire by Emperor Frederick II of Hohenstaufen in 1228, for accompanying him to the Holy Land. Modernized in the 15th century by Abbot Barthélemy d'Andlau, damaged in 1542, then struck by lightning in 1598, the castle was abandoned in the 17th century before being classified as a Historic Monument in 1898.

A Rich and Authentic Program

The festival offers a dive into medieval daily life through 15th-century historical reenactment camps. Artisans in period costume showcase their skills: illumination, cooperage, medieval masonry, and leatherworking. Visitors can try their hand at archery and crossbow shooting, while younger ones enjoy tales and legends told at the foot of the ramparts. Medieval music and dances liven up the ruins, and lectures on medieval fashion and cuisine complete the immersion.

An Alsatian Associative Collaboration

The festival is the result of a collaboration between Pro Hugstein and the Médiévales de Gueberschwihr, an association that has been passionately organizing medieval festivals in Alsace for nearly 30 years. Together, they offer varied activities: ancient games, calligraphy, medieval theater, soldier troupes, and educational workshops for all ages. The Club Vosgien de Guebwiller provides guided tours of the castle and the site, offering historical and architectural insights into the ruins.

Boar on a Spit and Flavors of Yesteryear

The catering is also a highlight: a boar roasted on a spit is the culinary centerpiece of the festival, accompanied by medieval-inspired specialties. A Hugstein beer, specially brewed for the event by Brasserie du Merle Noir with a local ingredient, is offered to visitors. The Pro Hugstein refreshment stand also offers drinks and snacks throughout the weekend, in a warm and friendly atmosphere amidst the ruins.