The domain of the Haut-Koenigsbourg fortified castle extends on a rocky outcrop. Its ramparts surround an area 881 ft long (270 m) and 131 ft wide (40 m). In the center of the walls stand the apartments and the keep. The entrance is through the fortress' lower courtyard, which includes an inn, a fountain, and a forge. From there, a drawbridge, preceded by steps, overlooks the inner courtyard. It constitutes the last defense before the hexagonal spiral staircase climbing up to the apartments.