What is a medieval motte?

A motte is a fortified earthen mound, typically topped by a defensive structure and often surrounded by a ditch. It was a common form of castle throughout the Middle Ages.

Why is the Manspach motte unusual?

Its rectangular plan is exceptionally rare in Alsace, where such structures almost always follow circular or oval designs.

Motte of Manspach

Dannemarie

Access

No visits on recordNo opening hours or ticketing found

Where: Dannemarie

To make a day of it

Open within 20 km

Château, actuellement musée d'Art et d'Histoire, et enceinte urbaineOpen to visitors18 km

Motte de Manspach stands in Dannemarie (Haut-Rhin), in the Grand Est region of France. The building is registered as a historic monument (dating recorded in the Mérimée database: Middle Ages). The building is privately owned and no visits are on record.

The motte of Manspach, located in Dannemarie in the Haut-Rhin, is a medieval defensive earthwork. Its rectangular plan is exceptionally uncommon in Alsace, where castle mottes typically follow circular or oval designs. Protected as a historical monument since 1997, it represents a fortification technique typical of the Middle Ages.

What to know

The site is freely accessible with no set hours or admission fee.
The protected remains include the land itself, fully covered by the 1997 order.
No modern facilities or structures are mentioned on site.

Where this château is

Dannemarie · Haut-Rhin · Grand Est

Map of the area around Motte de Manspach

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This châteauChâteaux within 40 km

Address

68210

Directions open from wherever you are, by car or public transport.

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Heritage status: Registered historic monument (inscrit); Mérimée record PA00135157
Period of construction: Middle Ages

Itineraries

Frequently asked

What is a medieval motte?: A motte is a fortified earthen mound, typically topped by a defensive structure and often surrounded by a ditch. It was a common form of castle throughout the Middle Ages.
Why is the Manspach motte unusual?: Its rectangular plan is exceptionally rare in Alsace, where such structures almost always follow circular or oval designs.