Wettolsheim


Presentation of the Alsace village of Wettolsheim
Wettolsheim, 1721 inhabitants, 5 kilometres south-west of Colmar, is surrounded by vineyards slopes and overlooked by famous ruined castles : the Hohlandsbourg, the 3 Castles and, tucked away in the forest, the Hagueneck. The ancient origins of the village can be seen from traces of the old "Feldkirch" church (demolished in 1780) in the cemetery.Over the past 30 years, the village has expanded, but numerous tastefully-restored old houses remain to charm the visitor. The elegant spire of St Rémi's parish church emerges from the silhouette of the village. Of the 19th century construction (1780-1782), it has splendid Baroque furnishings and a fine organ. An impressive Grotto of Lourdes can be admired in the Rue du Château, an exact replica of the Massabielle Grotto that was constructed in 1912. Until its unfortunate demolition in 1960, the 18th century Martinsbourg castle stood on the site of today's Résidence du Château. Of the Hagueneck castle (13th century), classified since 1932 as an historic monument, only a square keep and a rectangular outbuilding, with its Romanesque windows and characteristic recessed benches, now remain. Wettolsheim, the biggest viticultural locality in the Haut-Rhin, produces a full range of Alsace Wines, including those from the "Steingrubler" Grand Cru slope. Numerous families of winegrowers cultivate almost 450 hectares of vineyards, and the wines of Wettolsheim have long been renowned for their quality, elegance and bouquet. The wine festival : For more than 30 years, during the last weekend of July, the principal event of the year in the village is the Wine Fair. Numerous visitors throng the streets to enjoy themselves in a light-hearted way, appreciating the wines of Wettolsheim, the gastronomy and various activities taking place in the streets and in courtyards specially opened for the occasion. Heritage buildings - Hagueneck castle (1200-1230) destroyed in the 15th century. The Hagueneck were vassals of the Bishop of Strasbourg. (Open to the public) - Grotto of Lourdes (copy of the Massabielle grotto) erected in memory of Mgr Schoepfer, Bishop of Lourdes-Tarbes at the time, who was born in Wettolsheim. Heritage objects: - Birgäntzlé organ (1789-1790) the organ factor's masterpiece Leisure facilities nearby : Château ou fortification ; Hiking trail ; Patrimoine religieux