Préfecture de Colmar historic building exterior

Préfecture Du Haut Rhin

Visiting the Préfecture du Haut-Rhin, Colmar, France: Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Préfecture du Haut-Rhin in Colmar is a cornerstone of French administrative history, embodying both the evolution of regional governance and the architectural sophistication of 19th-century France. Established as the administrative headquarters for the Haut-Rhin department—one of the original départements created during the French Revolution in 1790—the prefecture stands as a symbol of the region’s Franco-German heritage, resilience, and adaptability. Its stately Louis XIII-style façade, combined with modern expansions, reflects the enduring presence of the French state in Alsace. This guide provides a detailed look at the prefecture’s origins, architectural highlights, administrative role, practical visitor information, and tips to help you make the most of your visit to Colmar and the Grand Est region (Haut-Rhin Préfecture, Tourisme Colmar, Wikipedia Haut-Rhin).

Front view of Préfecture de Colmar building with architectural details

Introduction
Historical Origins and Development
Architectural Significance
Administrative Role and Civic Functions
The Prefecture in the Alsace and French Context
Visiting the Préfecture: Practical Information
The Prefecture’s Place in Colmar’s Urban Fabric
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
FAQ – Visiting the Préfecture du Haut-Rhin
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Origins and Development

The Haut-Rhin department, with Colmar as its prefectural seat, arose from the reorganization of French territory during the Revolution. Colmar’s strategic and cultural prominence in Alsace made it an ideal administrative center. Over two centuries, the region has experienced repeated shifts between French and German governance, each leaving an imprint on the prefecture’s structure and functions (regions-departements-france.fr, Wikipedia Haut-Rhin).

During the 19th century, as French state authority was asserted and symbolized through public architecture, the current Hôtel de la Préfecture was constructed (1862–1866). Its design and presence illustrate both the stability of the republican order and the historical complexities of Alsace (visit.alsace).

Architectural Significance

The prefecture at 7 rue Bruat is a prime example of 19th-century French civic architecture, blending Louis XIII revival style with local Alsatian motifs. Features include:

Symmetrical façade with central block and lateral wings
Brick and stone construction with classical details (pilasters, cornices)
Steep slate roofs and ceremonial entrance adorned with the French emblem
Grand interior spaces (not regularly open to the public) with high ceilings, historic furnishings, and art representing Haut-Rhin’s identity

In 1978, a modernist administrative annex was added, designed by Jean Chomel, featuring a functional aesthetic and large windows, separated from the historic building by a landscaped park (archi-wiki.org, colmar.fr).

The prefecture’s resilience is notable: it survived fires in 1938, bombings in 1940, and has undergone careful restoration to preserve its heritage (visit.alsace).

Administrative Role and Civic Functions

The Préfecture du Haut-Rhin is the seat of the Prefect, the highest state official in the department, appointed by the President of the Republic. The prefecture’s responsibilities include:

Maintaining public order and security
Implementing national policies (employment, social cohesion, urban planning, environment)
Supervising local authorities and overseeing legality of local government acts
Providing civil services (identity documents, driving licenses, residency permits)

The department is also divided into four arrondissements, with Colmar as the central administrative hub (service-public.fr, haut-rhin.gouv.fr).

The Prefecture in the Alsace and French Context

Alsace’s history of alternating French and German rule has repeatedly reshaped the prefecture’s role:

French Revolution & Napoleonic Era: Centralization and rationalization of governance
German Annexations (1871–1918, 1940–1945): Replacement of French administrative systems, restored post-liberation
Modern era: Since 2021, Haut-Rhin is part of the Collectivité européenne d’Alsace, retaining its prefecture for state purposes (Wikipedia Haut-Rhin, regions-departements-france.fr).

Visiting the Préfecture: Practical Information

Location & Access

Address: 7 rue Bruat, 68000 Colmar, France (Google Maps)
Cité Administrative: 3 rue Fleischhauer, 68000 Colmar

Both are easily accessible by foot, public transport (TRACE bus lines), or car with nearby parking (colmar.fr/parkings).

Hours and Admission

Administrative hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
Public access: Entry is generally for official business or by appointment. No ticket is required. The building is not open for routine tourist visits.
Special events: Guided tours of the interior are offered during European Heritage Days in September.

Accessibility

The Cité Administrative and modern annex are fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms.

Photography

Exterior photography is encouraged to capture the building’s architectural details. Interior photography is generally not permitted except during authorized events.

The Prefecture’s Place in Colmar’s Urban Fabric

The prefecture is set opposite the scenic Champ de Mars park and near Colmar’s medieval old town. Its stately presence contrasts with the half-timbered houses and winding streets that define the city’s historic ambiance, highlighting the evolution from medieval to modern civic architecture (Tourisme Colmar, colmar.fr).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Combine your visit to the prefecture with other Colmar highlights:

Champ de Mars: Landscaped park ideal for photography and relaxation
Maison Pfister & Maison des Têtes: Iconic historic houses
Koïfhus (Ancienne Douane): Medieval customs house
Musée Unterlinden: Home to the renowned Isenheim Altarpiece
Petite Venise: Picturesque canals and classic Alsatian architecture

Travel tips:

Visit during European Heritage Days for interior access
Wear comfortable shoes for walking Colmar’s cobbled streets
Use local public transport or bike rentals for easy city exploration

(France This Way, Routard)

FAQ – Visiting the Préfecture du Haut-Rhin

Q: What are the visiting hours of the Préfecture du Haut-Rhin?
A: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM. Closed weekends and public holidays.

Q: Is the Préfecture open to the public?
A: Access is typically limited to official business or by appointment. The exterior and surrounding park can be visited freely.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Offered during special events such as European Heritage Days. Check the Haut-Rhin prefecture website for updates.

Q: Is the building accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, especially at the Cité Administrative and in modern areas.

Q: What nearby attractions should I visit?
A: Champ de Mars park, Maison Pfister, Musée Unterlinden, Petite Venise.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Préfecture du Haut-Rhin is not simply an administrative building but a living testament to Alsace’s layered history and French civic tradition. Admire its grand Louis XIII architecture, explore Colmar’s surrounding historic sites, and deepen your understanding of French regional administration. For the latest visiting information, guided tours, and special events, consult the official Haut-Rhin prefecture website. Enhance your visit with the Audiala app for guided tours, up-to-date tips, and more. Share your experiences on social media and continue your journey through Alsace’s heritage!