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Église Saint-Pantaléon: A Romanesque Gem in Gueberschwihr

Discover the Romanesque charm of Église Saint-Pantaléon in Gueberschwihr, a historic village on the Alsace Wine Route, where medieval architecture meets neo-Romanesque artistry.

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The Église Saint-Pantaléon, standing proudly on the Place de la Mairie in Gueberschwihr, is a captivating blend of architectural styles, dominated by its remarkably preserved Romanesque bell tower dating back to the 12th century. This historic village, nestled on the Alsace Wine Route, offers a picturesque setting for exploring this intriguing church. While the main body of the church was rebuilt in the neo-Romanesque style in the 19th century, the original tower remains a testament to the region's rich medieval past. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the tower, constructed from pink sandstone, and explore the church's interior, which houses artwork and stained glass from the late 19th century. The church's location in the heart of Gueberschwihr makes it an easily accessible and worthwhile stop for those touring the Alsace region.

A brief summary to Église Saint-Pantaléon de Gueberschwihr

  • 13 Pl. de la Mairie, Gueberschwihr, 68420, FR

Local tips

  • Visit during the grape harvest season (September-October) to experience the village's vibrant atmosphere and sample local wines.
  • Take a guided tour of Gueberschwihr to learn about the village's history and architecture, including the church's Romanesque bell tower.
  • Explore the Alsace Wine Route and visit nearby wineries to taste the region's renowned wines.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Colmar, take bus line 440 towards Guebwiller. The bus stops at 'GUEBERSCHWIHR - Chapelle' and 'GUEBERSCHWIHR - Mairie'. The church is located on Place de la Mairie, a short walk from either bus stop. A single bus fare costs approximately €3-€5.

  • Driving

    From Colmar, follow the D83 south towards Guebwiller. Exit onto D106 towards Gueberschwihr. Upon entering Gueberschwihr, follow signs to the Place de la Mairie. Free parking is available in the town, including near the Place de la Mairie. Parking can be limited during peak tourist season.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Gueberschwihr, the Église Saint-Pantaléon is easily accessible on foot. From most points in the village, follow signs to the Place de la Mairie. The church is located on the square, easily visible due to its prominent bell tower.

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Discover more about Église Saint-Pantaléon de Gueberschwihr

Église Saint-Pantaléon de Gueberschwihr, a prominent landmark in the charming village of Gueberschwihr, offers a glimpse into the layered history of Alsace. While the church itself is a 19th-century neo-Romanesque structure, its crowning glory is the magnificent Romanesque bell tower, a survivor from the original 12th-century church. This juxtaposition of styles creates a unique and compelling architectural narrative. Gueberschwihr, a village steeped in history, is strategically located on the famed Alsace Wine Route, approximately 18 kilometers south of Colmar and 12 kilometers from Rouffach. The village's history dates back to the 7th century, with noble families establishing residences here in the 11th century, drawn by the region's fertile lands. This prosperity, however, also attracted invaders, leading to the village being plundered on numerous occasions. Today, Gueberschwihr is a peaceful and picturesque village, celebrated for its vineyards, half-timbered houses, and, of course, the Église Saint-Pantaléon. The story of Église Saint-Pantaléon is one of evolution and adaptation. Originally constructed in the 12th century, the church was dedicated to Saint Himère, a 4th-century physician and martyr. Following a plague epidemic between 1337 and 1348, Saint Pantaléon, also a physician and martyr, gradually became the church's patron saint. The church was initially part of a fortified cemetery, and underwent few alterations until the late 18th century. The choir, flanked by two lateral chapels ending in apses, was built above a crypt. A 36-meter-high tower stood at the transept crossing. In 1835, the medieval church was deemed too small, leading to the demolition of the choir, apsidioles, side aisles, and crypt. A new, larger church was constructed. However, structural issues soon emerged, with cracks appearing in the new building as early as 1850. This prompted another reconstruction between 1874 and 1878, resulting in the neo-Romanesque church that stands today. Architect Jean-Baptiste Schacre designed the new church, carefully preserving the Romanesque bell tower. The bell tower, constructed around 1130, is the sole remaining element of the original Romanesque church. Built from pink sandstone, it stands 36 meters tall and features paired windows. The tower once served as the crossing tower of the Romanesque church. In 1841, the tower was classified as a historical monument, recognizing its significance. Restoration work on the tower, including its square base and the adjacent north arm of the transept, was carried out between 2018 and 2020. The interior of the church reflects the late 19th-century reconstruction. In 1898, Martin Feuerstein, a painter from Barr, decorated the choir with paintings depicting the life of Saint Pantaléon. The vault of the apse features a depiction of the Coronation of the Virgin. The furnishings and stained glass windows also date from the late 19th century. A stained-glass window in the choir, on the right, depicts the original Romanesque church. Behind the church, remnants of the old Saint-Michel chapel, once an ossuary, can be seen in the retaining wall. These arcades and sarcophagi, some dating back to the Frankish period, offer a tangible link to the site's long history. The church also features a sundial and a chapel dedicated to Notre-Dame de Lourdes. Église Saint-Pantaléon is located on the Place de la Mairie, the central square of Gueberschwihr. This square is surrounded by beautiful half-timbered houses, adding to the village's charm. Visitors can explore the village by walking along the Rue Haute and Rue Basse, admiring the winegrowers' houses that line the streets. Gueberschwihr is also known for its wine, and a visit to a local winery is a must for wine enthusiasts. The village is part of the Alsace Wine Route, a scenic route that winds through the region's vineyards and picturesque villages. While visiting Église Saint-Pantaléon, take the time to explore the surrounding area. The nearby Convent Saint-Marc, located approximately 2 kilometers away in a Vosges valley, is a fine example of 18th-century architecture. The village of Eguisheim, known as one of the most beautiful villages in France, is also within easy reach. The Route des Cinq Châteaux, featuring the ruins of five medieval castles, offers stunning views of the Alsace plain. Église Saint-Pantaléon de Gueberschwihr is more than just a church; it is a repository of history, art, and Alsatian culture. Its Romanesque bell tower stands as a symbol of the region's enduring heritage, while the neo-Romanesque church reflects the community's ongoing faith and resilience. A visit to this remarkable church offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the beauty of the present.

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