La Vieille Ville | Colmar

La Vieille Ville (the Old Town) of Colmar is the historic heart of the town and one of the most picturesque areas in all of France. This well-preserved district transports visitors back in time with its cobblestone streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and charming town squares, all of which have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Key Features of La Vieille Ville

1. Historic Architecture

• The Old Town is characterized by its medieval and Renaissance architecture, featuring half-timbered houses, stone buildings, and gothic churches. The buildings are typically adorned with wooden shutters, flower boxes, and intricate decorative facades, giving the town a charming, fairy-tale quality.
• Many of the houses have remained remarkably well-preserved, with some dating back to the 16th century. Walking through La Vieille Ville feels like stepping into a living museum of historic Alsace.

2. La Petite Venise (Little Venice)

• One of the most famous areas within La Vieille Ville is La Petite Venise (Little Venice), a canal-side district known for its picturesque houses and winding canals. This area is often photographed due to its stunning beauty, especially when the colorful houses reflect off the water.
• Visitors can take a boat ride along the canals or simply stroll through the flower-lined streets, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of this charming district.

3. Place de l'Ancienne Douane

• The Place de l'Ancienne Douane (Place of the Old Customs House) is one of the central squares of La Vieille Ville and a prime example of Renaissance architecture. The square is dominated by the Maison des Têtes (House of Heads), a beautiful building from the 17th century decorated with numerous carved heads of people and animals.
• The square is also home to the Old Customs House, a historic building that once served as a customs office for merchants arriving in Colmar. The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it a great spot to relax and people-watch.

4. Saint-Martin's Church (Église Saint-Martin)

• Located in the heart of La Vieille Ville, the Église Saint-Martin is a striking Gothic church that dates back to the 13th century. The church is known for its soaring vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and its impressive rose window, which is one of the most beautiful in the region.
• Inside the church, visitors can admire a variety of religious sculptures and paintings, as well as the altar and pulpit, which are masterpieces of Gothic design.

5. The Koïfhus (Old Customs House)

• The Koïfhus is one of the oldest buildings in Colmar and was originally built in the 15th century. It served as the customs house for merchants and traders traveling through the region. The building has a distinctive medieval architectural style, with large arched windows and an ornate roof.
• Today, the Koïfhus houses exhibitions related to the town’s history and heritage, and its grand entrance makes it a striking landmark in La Vieille Ville.

6. The Pfister House (Maison Pfister)

• The Maison Pfister is a beautifully preserved Renaissance house located in the Old Town. Built in 1537, this house features elaborate wooden balconies, decorative frescoes, and a stunning turret that gives it a fairy-tale charm.
• The house is a fine example of the Renaissance style in Colmar, where French and German architectural influences are often blended. It is one of the most photographed buildings in the city.

7. Place des Dominicains

• Place des Dominicains is a charming square in the Old Town, surrounded by historical buildings. At its center is the Dominican Church, a Gothic-style church that dates back to the 13th century. The square is a peaceful place to sit and enjoy the atmosphere of Colmar’s medieval core, with views of the church’s façade and the surrounding half-timbered houses.

8. The Rue des Marchands

• One of the most picturesque streets in the Old Town, Rue des Marchands is lined with colorful buildings, many of which have medieval facades. The street is home to a number of shops, cafes, and boutiques, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the local culture.
• Along this street, you can also find the Maison des Têtes, a notable building with carved faces adorning its façade, and several other historic landmarks.

9. Old Market Hall (Halle aux Blés)

• The Halle aux Blés is a beautiful 19th-century market hall that sits near the center of Colmar. Although it was built later than most of the buildings in the Old Town, it blends seamlessly into the medieval surroundings. The hall was originally used as a grain market, and today it houses local artisan goods and food stalls.
• The architecture of the building, with its ironwork details and glass roof, is a fine example of industrial design from the late 19th century.

10. The Colmar Christmas Markets

• During the Christmas season, Colmar’s Old Town is transformed into a winter wonderland, with Christmas lights illuminating the streets and holiday markets selling seasonal gifts, handcrafted goods, and warm drinks like vin chaud (hot mulled wine).
• The Christmas Markets in La Vieille Ville are a highlight of the holiday season, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience the town’s festive atmosphere.

Conclusion

La Vieille Ville of Colmar is a place of immense historical charm and beauty. With its mix of medieval streets, Renaissance buildings, and vibrant squares, it offers an immersive experience of what Colmar was like hundreds of years ago. The town’s unique architecture, combined with its canals, churches, and historical landmarks, makes it one of the most beautiful and captivating Old Towns in France. Whether you're wandering through La Petite Venise, exploring its historic sites, or enjoying the festive atmosphere of the Christmas Markets, La Vieille Ville provides a charming and unforgettable experience.