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Origin and history

The Church of Saint John the Baptist of Algrange is a Catholic building erected during the German annexation of the Moselle, when the city is transformed under the influence of the Wilhelmian authorities. Its architecture reflects the eclecticism of the era, mixing neogothic and other styles, in a context of urbanization accelerated by mining. Population growth, linked to the opening of mines, makes it necessary to build a new place of worship.

The project, initiated in 1888 by Abbé Vernet, is entrusted to the architect Conrad Wahn, in chief at Metz. The initial budget of 80,000 marks is reduced to 75,000 marks for a neogothic building with a basilical nave, vaulted in three ships. The work, begun in 1891, ended in one year: the church was consecrated on October 12, 1892 by Bishop Fleck, Bishop of Metz. Its structure combines Jaumont stone and coated bellows, with an imposing bell tower and a facade adorned with three gable portals, surmounted by a trilobed rosace.

In 1894, the organ of the former church of Saint Martin in Hayange was transferred there, completing its development. The building is part of a desire for urban modernization, symbolizing both the local faith and the German architectural influence of the time. Its neo-Gothic style, typical of Wilhelmian achievements, makes it a significant testimony of this historical period in Lorraine.

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