Take a tour of Colmar's traditional houses

A half-timbered house is made up of two main elements. The first is a wooden frame made up of posts and runners, which forms the structure of the house itself. The second element is the half-timbering that forms the walls and acts as a filler and stiffener. This infill between the timbers is made of bricks or light materials such as cob or plaster.

This method of construction was widespread in the Middle Ages and up until the end of the 19th century, when wood was cheaper and more readily available than hewn stone. Originally a common and "pragmatic" building method, half-timbering has become decorative rather than structural in the construction of today's houses. Half-timbered houses are highly aesthetic and add a picturesque touch.

So, which traditional houses in Colmar are not to be missed?

Built in 1537, the Pfister house is the most famous half-timbered house in Colmar. Its originality lies in the mix of styles it displays, since it was built during the Alsatian Renaissance, but contains many Gothic architectural elements. It is this very distinctive, busy style that has made its reputation.

The large wooden galleries, impressive octagonal turrets, etc. are just some of the many features that adorn the façade of the house and reveal the wealth of its owner, a wealthy hatmaker. Our tip: take the time to admire the beautiful exterior paintings that adorn the house!

Maison Adolphe is named after the family who renovated it in the 19th century. But the house itself is the oldest half-timbered house in the town, built in 1350! Maison Adolphe isn't necessarily the prettiest house on Place de la Cathédrale, but it's certainly impressive, especially given that it's almost 700 years old!

If you're passing by, be sure to stop in front of the Schongauer house, an emblematic example of Alsace's architectural heritage. Perhaps the name rings a bell? As well as its magnificent traditional architecture, it is its name that makes it so famous, as it bears the name of the family of the famous Colmar painter Martin Schongauer. Schongauer is best known for his painting "The Virgin with the Rose Bush", which you can admire in the Dominican Church in Colmar itself.

The Maison des Têtes is a true emblem of the town of Colmar. It's not a half-timbered house, but it is a traditional Colmar landmark. Impressive and highly original, its architecture is in the Renaissance style.

Its original name comes from the hundred or so (106 to be exact) sculpted heads that adorn its façade! It was built in 1609 by a wealthy merchant, and later used to house the wine exchange. After being almost entirely restored, the Maison des Têtes now houses a hotel and two of Colmar's best-known restaurants.

At the Maison des Têtes, of course! As you can see, the Maison des Têtes is a house steeped in history that has been transformed into a 5-star hotel, a member of Relais & Châteaux. Here you can admire the superb original traditional woodwork, elegantly enhanced by contemporary decor and natural colours. La Maison des Têtes is a superb establishment for a charming stay!