The history of Haut-Koenigsbourg castle is a long succession of battles for its possession since its construction during the 12th century. Its strategic location, overlooking the plain of Alsace, and its reputation as an impregnable fortress aroused desires for centuries. It was, in turn, German, French, part of the Holy Roman Empire and even became a den of brigands for a few years. Destroyed in 1633 by the Swedish armies during the Thirty Years' War, the castle was revived at the beginning of the 20th century.