Ancien Corps de Garde
A stunning 16th-century German Renaissance structure, once a town hall, now a picturesque landmark facing Saint Martin Church.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light for photos
Ancien Corps de Garde
Best Time
Golden light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 16th-century German Renaissance structure, once a town hall, now a picturesque landmark facing Saint Martin Church.
"It is an interesting point of interest. personally I think it is worth having a short stop to take photos."
📸 Photo Stop Essential
A must-stop for photos, especially with the church in view. Worth a short visit! :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Explore Colmar's Charm
The Ancien Corps de Garde is a highlight, but Colmar offers a week's worth of exploration. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
German Renaissance Architecture
Facing Saint Martin Church
Admire the intricate details of this 1575 structure, a testament to German Renaissance design.
Saint Martin Church View
Loggia
Enjoy a picturesque view of the remarkable Saint Martin Church from the loggia.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Capturing the Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Stop Essential
A must-stop for photos, especially with the church in view. Worth a short visit! :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Explore Colmar's Charm
The Ancien Corps de Garde is a highlight, but Colmar offers a week's worth of exploration. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Stop Essential
A must-stop for photos, especially with the church in view. Worth a short visit! :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Explore Colmar's Charm
The Ancien Corps de Garde is a highlight, but Colmar offers a week's worth of exploration. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Ancien Corps de Garde to be a beautiful and historically significant building, particularly praised for its German Renaissance architecture and its picturesque view of Saint Martin's Church. It's considered a worthwhile stop for a quick photo opportunity within the charming city of Colmar.
"The Salle du Corps de Garde or Ancien Corps de Garde, is a German Renaissance structure, built in 1575. It was originally intended to be a town hall, it then housed the town guard. As the loggia is directly facing the Saint Martin Church, it is easy to understand why."
Bogdan Klimowicz
"Colmar is a nice place where you can walk for a week and will not be bored"
Светлана
"Beautiful old building, that is viewing the remarkable St Martin's Church."
Y.H.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ancien Corps de Garde is located in the heart of Colmar's old town, making it easily accessible on foot. If arriving by car, look for parking garages in the city center. It's a central point of interest within the charming streets of Colmar.
Yes, Colmar's old town is well-served by public transport. The Ancien Corps de Garde is within walking distance of several bus stops in the city center, making it convenient to reach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Ancien Corps de Garde is an exterior architectural landmark. You can admire its facade and the views from its loggia freely without needing a ticket.
As an exterior structure, the Ancien Corps de Garde does not have specific opening hours. You can view it at any time of day, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the building's details and its view of Saint Martin's Church. Late afternoons can also provide lovely lighting.
The loggia facing Saint Martin's Church is a prime spot. Also, try framing it from across the square to include more of the surrounding historic architecture.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Originally built as a town hall and later housing the town guard, the Ancien Corps de Garde is now a significant historical landmark and a point of interest for visitors admiring its architecture and location.
A short stop of about 15-30 minutes is usually sufficient to appreciate the building's exterior and take photos, especially if you're exploring the wider Colmar area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since it's an exterior landmark, kids can easily appreciate its appearance without needing to go inside. Combine a visit here with a stroll through the nearby streets, perhaps looking for the famous stork nests often seen in Colmar's rooftops, making it part of a larger, fun exploration of the town.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Plan your visit for the golden hours to capture the best light. Early mornings are ideal for fewer crowds and softer illumination, allowing you to focus on the architectural details. The surrounding area also provides ample opportunities for street photography, making this a rewarding stop for anyone interested in visual storytelling.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The building's architecture is a key feature, showcasing the styles and craftsmanship of the 16th century. Its loggia, in particular, offers a unique vantage point. Visitors often remark on its beauty and the historical context it provides to the surrounding square. It stands as a well-preserved example of the era's civic architecture, contributing to Colmar's reputation as a city rich in history and picturesque old buildings.
While not an active municipal building today, the Ancien Corps de Garde remains a beloved landmark. It serves as a visual anchor in the town, drawing attention to the interplay between civic structures and religious buildings in historic European cities. Its presence adds to the overall charm and historical narrative that makes Colmar such an appealing destination for tourists.
Photography Tips for the Ancien Corps de Garde
Consider the composition carefully. The loggia provides a natural frame for the Saint Martin Church, creating a classic postcard view. Experiment with different angles; standing across the square can offer a broader perspective, incorporating more of the charming Colmar streetscape. Early morning visits are also advantageous for avoiding crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots and a more peaceful experience.
While the exterior is the main attraction, pay attention to the architectural details of the Ancien Corps de Garde itself. The stonework, window designs, and overall structure tell a story of its 16th-century origins. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the building in its context, while a telephoto lens might help isolate specific architectural elements.
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