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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Schaefertal Chapel, located in Soultzmatt in the Upper Rhine, is a religious building whose origins may date back to the 14th century, although its current structure dates mainly from the early 16th century. The choir, consecrated in 1511, has typical reamped bays of this time, while task marks attest to the construction work. The Schaefertal place (Val du Berger) was first mentioned in 1339 as possession of the Laubgassen family, suggesting an ancient occupation of the site.

The chapel underwent two major enlargements: the first in 1594, as indicated by a date engraved on a window of the nave, and the second in 1745, with the addition of the western half of the nave and the re-use of stones from the Schwartzenthann convent. A side door, dated 1745, and twin-cindered windows were pierced during this phase. The triumphal arch, in broken arch, bears a partially hidden date (17.5), while a capital carved of palmettes and dragon, discovered during restorations, would also come from this convent.

The chapel was sold as a national property in 1796 to Bernard Lanwerlin, before being returned to worship in 1803. Two restoration campaigns marked its history: in 1864, under the direction of agent Dicker (roof, frame, ceiling of the choir), and between 1984 and 1988, with the active involvement of the Association of Friends of the Schaefertal. This work allowed the discovery of missing architectural elements, such as an 18th century pulpit or four paintings of the Fathers of the Church (circa 1500), which were not found today.

Close to the chapel, a house built at the end of the 16th century, rebuilt in 1726 (dated engraved on a fireplace and a window), served as a forest house in the 19th century. Its initial use remains uncertain, although its size suggests a more important function than a simple hermitage. The chapel, classified as a historical monument since 1987 for its facades, roofs and fragments of painted decoration, preserves traces of rinceaux painted under the triumphal arch and a reworked wooden stand.

The site, located on an Alsatian road of Santiago de Compostela, includes a remarkable source facing the entrance. Its history reflects the religious and architectural evolutions of Alsace, between medieval heritage, Renaissance influences and Baroque adaptations. The chapel remains a testimony of local devotee practices and regional pilgrimage networks.

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