Hotel La Citadelle Metz-MGallery
Metz, France
Hotel La Citadelle Metz-MGallery
5 Avenue Ney, Metz, France, 57000 Original Property Opened in 1550 Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2018The story of Hotel La Citadelle Metz-MGallery starts with a war fought between France and the Holy Roman Empire throughout most of the 1550s. During the war, the French king, Henry II, invaded the realm of the Holy Roman Empire and captured the city of Metz. He left a small garrison behind, who erected a series of imposing fortifications all over the city. The garrison continued developing its defenses, even after it had successfully turned back a gigantic army led by the Holy Roman Emperor. Among the structures the soldiers created was a massive citadel that overlooked Metz. Within its sprawling complex was a large warehouse called Le Magasin aux Vivres, which stored food for the entire garrison. The citadel continued protecting Metz long after the war had ended, standing as an ominous warning to any nation interested in challenging France’s military prowess. But with the advent of new military technologies in the 19th century, the French authorities considered the fortress superfluous and decommissioned it. The French government demolished most of the citadel, sparing only the warehouse and a few other buildings. After sitting idle for more than two centuries, Le Magasin aux Vivres finally became a small boutique hotel in 2005. Sofitel now operates the building as the Hôtel La Citadelle Metz, part of its luxurious MGallery Collection.
Discover
- Discover the fascinating Renaissance-style architecture of Hotel La Citadelle Metz-MGallery. This remarkable structure was once a warehouse called Le Magasin aux Vivres, which was part of a much larger citadel.
- Admire the Église Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains mere steps away. This fascinating historical structure originally functioned as a Roman secondary school before becoming a Benedictine chapel in the 7th century.
- Stroll out to the beautiful Jardin Boufflers just beyond the front door of the hotel. This verdant public garden is among the best places in Metz to view the majestic Moselle River.
Explore
- Explore the Porte des Allemands. Named for an ancient order of Teutonic Knights that resided in the city, Porte des Allemands is one of the most iconic buildings in all of Metz. The structure is the last surviving segment of the city’s medieval defenses, featuring a bridge, gate, and two guard towers.
- Travel to the Palais du Gouverneur nearby. Situated on the grounds of the historic citadel, the Palais du Gouverneur is a wonderful example of German architecture from the time Germany controlled Metz at the end of the 19th century.
- Visit Temple Neuf just moments away. Like the Governor’s Palace, Temple Neuf is a brilliant German structure created during the time when Germany controlled Metz prior to World War I. Constructed from 1901 to 1904, the church stands as a magnificent symbol of Romanesque Revival architecture.
Experience
- Experience Centre Pompidou-Metz. Dedicated to modern art, Centre Pompidou-Metz is a branch of the famous Museé National d’Art Moderne. The museum features three miraculous galleries that display some of the finest contemporary artwork in the entire world. Centre Pompidou-Metz also hosts dozens of theatrical performances and conventions throughout the year.
- Attend an outstanding theatrical performance at the Arsenal de Metz. This spectacular historic site has hosted all kinds of musical talent since 1859. Like Hôtel La Citadelle Metz, Arsenal de Metz occupies the former citadel site built during King Henry II’s war against the Holy Roman Empire.
- Tour the Musée de la Cour d'Or - Metz Métropole. Established in the early 19th century, the Musée de la Cour d'Or possesses rare Gallo-Roman and Medieval artifacts, as well as Fine Art exhibitions. With over 42 permanent galleries, visitors will need a whole day to see the Musée de la Cour d'Or.
Taste
- Savor some wonderful local eau-de-vie de fruit when staying in Metz. This refreshing beverage is a colorless fruit brandy that is made with a Lorrainer plum known as the Mirabelle.
- Dine at the many restaurants that line the Place de Chambre. One of the city’s most historic public squares, Place de Chambre is home to such noteworthy eateries like La Quille, Cantine de la Place, and Le Pampre.
- Enjoy the delicious local cuisine available at the historic Marché Couvert de Metz. Founded in 1785, this amazing venue is a fantastic place to try some of Metz’s most celebrated foods, such as quiche, potée, and pâté.
FEATURED ACCOMMODATIONS
Featured Offers
Reserve your room in advance and save up to 30% off our best available rates. Offer is non-refundable.
Book the Best Available Rate at this property on HistoricHotelsWorldwide.com and receive a complimentary one-year family membership (a $30 value) to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States, a member of the International National Trusts Organisation.
