Adolph House and Old Guardhouse

You’re now on Place de la Cathédrale, the Cathedral Square. But before we get to the impressive collegiate church of Saint-Martin, let’s take a moment to look across the square. That imposing building with the pinkish hue was once the city’s guardhouse.  Soldiers were stationed here to keep an eye out for enemies. This jewel of Renaissance architecture was built in 1575 on the site of the old City Hall. Part of the building housed a nut and oilseed market, while the loggia seen above the entrance was where the city’s magistrates would deliver their verdicts. It’s a stunning 16th-century building that has stood the test of time, adding to the charm of the Cathedral Square that has become a popular tourist attraction. Now, if you look to the left, you’ll see yet another historic building, the Adolph House. It’s one of the oldest houses in Colmar, dating back to the second half of the 14th century. Adorned with a half-timbered gable, the house before you bears the name of its 19th-century owner, who helped to bring out the beauty of its distinctive Gothic windows. As for the well in front of the house, it dates back to 1592. So you see, this house is a true vestige of medieval times!