Top 8 Castles around Wedau
Best castles around Wedau are found in the broader region, as Wedau itself is primarily recognized as a sports center within Duisburg, Germany. The area features a 2,150-meter regatta course and offers serene forest corners for outdoor activities. A 6-kilometer route is popular for running, hiking, and cycling. While Wedau is known for its recreational offerings, historical castle attractions are located in surrounding areas.
Best castles around Wedau
- The most popular castles is Citadel of Belfort, a historical site…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Citadel of Belfort
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Fort de Vézelois
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Lion of Belfort
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Mont Vaudois Fort
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View of the Belfort citadel
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Tips from the Community
The Citadel of Belfort is a historically complex building, reflecting five centuries of fortifications. It was built after the conquest of the city in 1687, replacing a medieval castle that previously stood on this rocky outcrop.
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Beautiful sculpture and coat of arms of Belfort, below the fortress.
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Impressive complex with the lion towering over it. Well-paved paths lead through the complex. From the top you have a great view of the city of Belfort. At night the lion and the fortress are illuminated. Simply beautiful.
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It is a monumental sculpture from 1880 created by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty. Completed in 1880, it is entirely made of red sandstone. The blocks that make it up were sculpted individually, then moved to the cliff below Belfort Castle to be assembled there. Twenty-two meters long and 11 meters high, the colossal work dominates the local landscape.
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imposing large fortress with a great view of the city and the surrounding area. Visiting the entire complex without the museums is free.
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Allow enough time, lots of steps and last entry at 5:30 p.m
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The construction of the Mont-Vaudois fort took 3 years between 1874 and 1877. In 1885, the invention of the torpedo shell, I suppose, bombarded the fort from above and led to the construction of an underground bunker as a defense. In 1944, faced with the advance of the Allies, a German unit occupied the fort and was driven out without success, despite a barrage of 3,000 shells. The Germans withdrew on their own. A testimony of this bunker built in 1885.
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The construction of the Mont-Vaudois fort took 3 years between 1874 and 1877. In 1885, the invention of the torpedo shell, I suppose, bombarded the fort from above and led to the construction of an underground bunker as a defense. In 1944, faced with the advance of the Allies, a German unit occupied the fort and was driven out without success, despite a barrage of 3,000 shells. The Germans withdrew on their own. A testimony of this bunker built in 1885.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there castles directly within Wedau?
No, Wedau itself is primarily known as a sports center within Duisburg, Germany, featuring a regatta course and recreational routes. Notable historical castle attractions are found in the broader region, not directly in Wedau.
What kind of historical fortifications can I visit around Wedau?
The area around Wedau features significant historical fortifications, including the Citadel of Belfort, a complex reflecting five centuries of military architecture. You can also explore the Mont Vaudois Fort, known for its 19th-century construction and underground bunker, and Fort de Vézelois, built to control strategic roads and railway lines.
What are the most popular historical sites near Wedau?
Among the most popular historical sites is the Citadel of Belfort, which is highly appreciated by visitors for its imposing structure and views. Other well-regarded sites include Mont Vaudois Fort and Fort de Vézelois, both offering insights into past military strategies.
Are there family-friendly castles or fortifications to visit?
Yes, the View of the Belfort citadel is considered family-friendly, offering an impressive historical experience suitable for all ages.
What can I expect to see at the Citadel of Belfort?
The Citadel of Belfort is an imposing fortress with bastioned towers, counter-guards, and extensive underground systems. It offers a great view of the city and surrounding area. Visiting the complex without the museums is free, and it's a powerful ensemble of defensive architecture.
What is the history behind Fort de Vézelois?
Fort de Vézelois was constructed between 1883 and 1886. Its primary role was to control roads from Switzerland and the Mulhouse railway line. It was later connected to other forts by a strategic railway and served as an ammunition depot during the World Wars.
What outdoor activities can I do near these historical sites?
While the historical sites themselves are the main attraction, the broader region around Wedau offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, running routes, and road cycling routes. For example, there are moderate hiking loops like the Fort Salbert – Salbert Viewpoint loop.
Are there hiking trails around the fortifications?
Yes, you can find hiking opportunities in the wider area. For instance, the hiking guide for Wedau lists routes such as the 'Fort Salbert – Salbert Viewpoint loop' which is a moderate 7.7 km trail.
What do visitors enjoy most about the fortifications around Wedau?
Visitors frequently appreciate the imposing scale and historical depth of these sites. The Citadel of Belfort, for example, is praised for its great views of the city and its well-preserved defensive systems. The historical significance and architectural ingenuity are often highlighted.
When is the best time to visit the Citadel of Belfort?
The Citadel of Belfort is generally open daily. From September 1st to June 30th, it's open from 8 am to 6:30 pm (except Tuesdays at 5 pm). During July and August, it extends its hours from 8 am to 8 pm. These longer summer hours might be ideal for enjoying the views and exploring the complex.
What is the significance of the Lion of Belfort?
The Lion of Belfort is a monumental sculpture by Auguste Bartholdi, located near the Citadel of Belfort. It commemorates the city's resistance during the Franco-Prussian War and is considered a symbol of the city. It's part of the powerful ensemble of fortifications and monuments in Belfort.
Can I combine a visit to these historical sites with other activities in Wedau?
Wedau itself is a hub for sports and recreation. You can combine a historical exploration of the fortifications with activities like running, hiking, or cycling along the popular 6-kilometer route in Wedau, or enjoy the serene forest corners.
Most popular attractions around Wedau
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