Castle of the Dukes of Württemberg - Montbéliard Castle

In the heart of the city of Montbéliard, the castle stands on a rocky spur at the confluence of two rivers. Comprising two large round towers (built in 1424 and 1590) and a main building rebuilt in 1751, it now houses a museum with paleontological collections. A historical tour within the two towers presents the history of the castle and displays beautiful pieces of Montbéliard furniture (a Carlin sideboard, a Briot platter) as well as portraits of the Dukes and Duchesses of Württemberg.

From 1397 to 1793, the castle served for four centuries as the residence of the Dukes of Württemberg. They established a distinctive historical identity in the Montbéliard region, born from a different mentality characterized by independence of spirit and a freedom that would be further strengthened in the 16th century with the Lutheran Reformation.

The museum has developed a contemporary art department and notably presents works by the painter Jean Messagier. Temporary exhibitions on a wide variety of themes complement the exploration of this site.