In 1972 an urban planning project on the site of the fortress in Châtel-sur-Moselle brought about the creation of the association Vieux-Châtel. It aims at consolidating, preserving and promoting the remains of the fortress. Since 1982, the association is based in the former convent Notre-Dame, recently converted into a cultural centre and museum, which is attached to the fortress.
With the help of volunteers
Since 1988 and thanks to the association, the site of the fortress is preserved and has been classified as a Place of Historic Interest. Indeed, for more than 45 years, nearly 6,000 volunteers from all over the world have worked on the site. Every summer, people come from all around the world to help restore and maintain the fortress.
Educational Tours and Workshops for school children have been developed by the Association, volunteers and in particular the four permanent employees. These take place at the fortress throughout the year. Every year, nearly 4,000 children, mostly from Lorraine, come and visit the site to discover its history. The pupils learn about medieval architecture, pottery, basketry, illumination, calligraphy and heraldry. As for the adults, they can partake in workshops on stone cutting, stained glass making and various constructions...
Since 2016, the Association has undertaken a scientific study on the site of the fortress. This project aims at gaining further insight into its vestiges, publish its findings and then invite the scientific community to take an interest in the fortress in Châtel-sur-Moselle.
