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To see in passing

Be sure to stay overnight in the monastery and discover the garden and rooms

On the edge of Vic-sur-Seille lies the former episcopal castle, an impressive remnant of the power of the bishops of Metz. Built from the end of the 12th century by Bishop Bertram, it served as both the residence and the administrative centre of the secular authority of the diocese. The castle was expanded in the 13th century into a pentagonal complex, fortified with semicircular towers and a deep moat. Under Bishop Thierry Bayer de Boppard (1365–1384), important restorations were carried out, including the construction of a south-west wing with access to the gardens and the “Grand Parc”. Of the original complex, only part of the residential building on the west side remains today, recognisable by the windows with niches. The most striking structure is the châtelet, the fortified entrance gate from the 15th century, with its white limestone machicolations and traces of a drawbridge. After its restoration in 2008, the castle is once again visible as a silent witness to the medieval power and strategic location of Vic-sur-Seille, especially in the context of salt mining and the rivalry with the Dukes of Lorraine.

Hôtel de la Monnaie (Vic-sur-Seille) This remarkable civil building, dating from 1456–1484, is often mistaken for a mint. In reality, it was probably the home of a wealthy money-changer, possibly the d’Hoffelize family. The building is a magnificent example of flamboyant Gothic architecture, with early Renaissance influences. The richly decorated facades and roofs have been protected as historical monuments since 1930.

Beautiful path in the shade with a view of the water

The Middle Bridge, originally called the Middle Pont des Morts, and the Pont des Morts (Bridge of the Dead), an extension of the former, owe their names to their construction: they were financed by the Saint-Nicolas Hospital, which sold the best garment from a deceased resident of Metz. The Middle Bridge was once fortified. Walking along the banks of the Moselle, you can still see the opening from which the gate was lowered to block access to the city from the river.

It is a very charming village

Hôtel de la Monnaie (Vic-sur-Seille) This remarkable civil building, dating from 1456–1484, is often mistaken for a mint. In reality, it was probably the home of a wealthy money-changer, possibly the d’Hoffelize family. The building is a magnificent example of flamboyant Gothic architecture, with early Renaissance influences. Its richly decorated facades and roofs have been protected as historical monuments since 1930. It now houses the information office.