Neuf-Brisach, Vauban's Fortress
Neuf-Brisach, a star in the heart of Alsace
In Vauban's footsteps
Neuf Brisach is a unique European site. It was built by Vauban on king Louis XIV’s orders in 1699 to defend Alsace. A new fortress was needed to replace Breisach lost to Austria in the treaty of Rijswijk. The town was built from scratch and 5 years construction work was necessary to make this giant and magnificent plan reality. Fortifications director, Jacques Tarade and architect, Jules Hardouin-Mansart were responsible for this work. The octagonal town of Neuf Brisach is centred within the star shaped fortress with eight tower bastions.
Discover Neuf Brisach’s history and architecture on foot and at your own speed with the guide ‘In Vauban’s footsteps’ and the information boards around town.
Guided Tours
The tourist office organises guided tours of the fortress all year round for groups and in July and August for individuals. During the visit you will discover the Royal St. Louis church, the square ‘Place d’Armes’, the Vauban museum, the fortifications and the Belfort and Colmar gates built by Hardouin Mansart. You will even penetrate the heart of the fortification: a tower bastion. Here in the ‘Radbühne’ (the wheel-stage) you can see contemporary sculptures by a local German artist from the neighbouring town of Breisach am Rhein which is still known locally as ‘old Brisach’.
Tours offered :
• Guided Tour ‘Town and fortifications’
€105 / adult group - €63 / school group - €3 individual adult
• Guided Tour of the museum
€58 / adult group - €42 / group of children
• Treasure hunt €53 / group of children
• Guided Tour of Neuf Brisach (France) and Breisach am Rhein (Germany)
€180 / adult group - €105/ school group
retour
