Barrage Vauban — Attraction in Strasbourg

The Barrage Vauban, also known as the Vauban Dam, is a historic structure in Strasbourg, France.

Built between 1686 and 1690 from pink Vosges sandstone, it was designed by the military engineer Vauban and constructed by Jacques Tarade.

The dam served a defensive purpose: in times of attack, it could raise the River Ill’s water level to flood the southern approaches to the city, rendering them impassable to enemies.

This tactic was notably employed during the Franco-Prussian War in 1870. The structure spans 120 meters and comprises 13 arches, with three raised to permit navigation.

Inside, an enclosed corridor links the two banks, and a lapidarium displays ancient plaster casts and copies of statues and gargoyles from Strasbourg Cathedral and Palais Rohan.

Atop the dam, a panoramic terrace offers visitors impressive views of Strasbourg’s canals, the Petite France quarter, and the nearby Covered Bridges.

Admission to both the dam and its terrace is free. The terrace is open daily, with operating hours varying seasonally: from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. between March 1 and April 30; from 7:15 a.m. to 9 p.m. between May 1 and August 31; from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. between September 1 and October 31; and from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. between November 1 and February 28 or 29.

The Barrage Vauban is situated near the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Commanderie Saint-Jean, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the city’s cultural sites.

For more information, you can visit the official Strasbourg tourism website....

Barrage Vauban in Strasbourg is a compact masterpiece of stone, strategy, and quiet beauty. Built in the late 1600s as a military defense structure, this fortified dam was once capable of flooding entire plains to protect the city. Today, it stands as a peaceful reminder of that past—welcoming visitors to climb up its stone stairs or take the elevator to a panoramic rooftop terrace. From the top, the view is breathtaking: the Ponts Couverts with their ancient towers, the gentle flow of the canal below, the half-timbered houses of Petite France, and the spire of the Strasbourg Cathedral rising like a stone sentinel in the distance. Down below, the cool, echoing corridor of the dam holds a quiet gallery of sculptures and cast figures—many rescued from the Cathedral and other monuments. The arches hum softly with the sound of running water, and the whole space feels like a walk through time. Though unassuming at first glance, the Barrage is deeply atmospheric. It invites lingering—people sketch, take photos, or simply sit and watch the light shift across the rooftops. Entry is free, the experience is rich, and despite its historical weight, it feels surprisingly serene. A brief visit here leaves a lasting impression, especially if you enjoy subtle places that blend history, architecture, and stillness so...

If you plan to visit Strasbourg, add “Barrage Vauban” to your must discovers!

The Barrage Vauban or Vauban Dam is a bridge from the 17thcentury on the River III. From this point, you can see a great panoramic view of Strasbourg, including the Petite France and the river. We recommend a boat ride and most importantly exploring the grounds. The rooftop is accessible and offers yet another panoramic view of Strasbourg's Petite France, part of the Ponts Couverts and river. This unique setting will make you feel like you travelled back in time.

According to Wikipedia, the barrage has 13 arches and is 120 metres (390ft) in length. It’s classified as a historical monument since 1971. Another great news, admission to the barrage is totally Free. Be sure to double check the opening times, we recall them being 9h00 to 19h30.

Our Ratings Serge: 5 Eli: 5

Recommend: 100% recommended, it’s an unique experience and one of the best panoramic views from & Strasbourg totally FREE.

Tips:

Get some comfortable shoes to walk. Access the rooftop, but check the times...