Ecomusee d'Alsace
Ecomusee d'Alsace
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About Ecomusee d'Alsace
Add to favoritesFrance's Largest Open-Air Museum A veritable living village, the Alsace Ecomuseum offers a spectacular immersion into rural life in the Rhine region during the 19th and 20th centuries. Located in Ungersheim, this exceptional site comprises over 80 authentic buildings—half-timbered houses, farms, artisans' workshops, a school, and a chapel—saved from demolition and rebuilt stone by stone. Strolling through the village streets, you're not just visiting a museum; you're stepping into the history of Alsace. The scent of wood smoke, the clatter of hooves, and storks nesting on the rooftops create an atmosphere of rare authenticity in the heart of the Grand Est region. What makes the experience unique is the omnipresence of movement and craftsmanship. Here, artisans (blacksmith, potter, wheelwright) practice their trades before your very eyes, passionately sharing the techniques of yesteryear. Community gardens, fields cultivated with animal traction, and traditional festivals in rhythm with the seasons bring this Alsatian heritage to life. It's a major family destination in Upper Alsace, offering a timeless escape where each house tells a story of the identity and ingenuity of Alsatian farmers.
Tip for an even more exceptional visit.
To fully enjoy the estate, plan a whole day: the site covers 100 hectares and is full of hidden corners. I recommend arriving right when it opens to watch the village come to life and the animals head out to pasture. Be sure to check the daily activities schedule at the entrance: boat trips on the river or rides on vintage tractors are often offered. During the holiday season, the site becomes magical with traditional Christmas decorations, far from the commercial hustle and bustle of big cities. Expert tip: Be sure to try the culinary specialties prepared on-site, such as tarte flambée cooked over a wood fire or bredalas (Alsatian Christmas cookies). If you are traveling with children, the hands-on workshops (cooking, pottery) are very popular; sign up as soon as you arrive. For photographers, the covered bridge and the reflections of the half-timbered houses in the water offer the most beautiful shots of the site. Finally, remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the paths are made of packed earth and cobblestones, faithful to the roads of the time!
