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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The parish church Saints-Pierre-et-Paul de Rosheim, in Lower Rhine, is a jewel of Alsatian Romanesque architecture, erected around 1150. Built in pink and yellow sandstone, it marks a major step on the Romanesque road of Alsace. Its apse, richly decorated, was the first part built, followed by the cross of the transept and the bell tower enhanced in Gothic style from 1286. The sculptures, partially damaged during the French Revolution, include the famous "head tent" decorated with 21 human figures.

The interior, sober and harmonious, contrasts with the exterior by its balanced proportions and its walls combining large blocks and narrow stones. The organ, a masterpiece by André Silbermann from 1733, reinforces the heritage value of the place. Ranked a historic monument in 1840, the church benefited from major restorations, notably between 1859-1864 and 1968. Its history also reflects links with the Hohenstaufen, emperors and lords of Rosheim, who allegedly supported its construction between 1140 and 1190.

A fire in 1385 damaged the cross tower, later enhanced, while a sacristy was added in the 15th century against the northern absidiole. The gate of the stair turret, dated 1712, and the northern chapel (1829-1842), bear witness to later additions. The parish, quoted in 1050 under the dependence of the abbey of Hesse in Lorraine, lost its early church after the fire of 1132, retaining only the old tower then serving as a choir.

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