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Origin and history

The Tempelhof is a former Templar Commandery located in Bergheim, Upper Rhine, from the 13th century. Founded in 1220 and cited in 1257, it was originally dedicated to the Virgin. After the dissolution of the Templar Order in 1312, she passed to the Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem, first attached to Sélestat, then to Strasbourg in 1388. The building was devastated during the Peasants' War in 1525.

The reconstruction of the Tempelhof began in 1557 and ended in 1559, as evidenced by the dates engraved on the lintels, pillars and coat of arms of the Commanderie. The main residence, in Renaissance style, includes a vaulted cellar, an elevated ground floor and a floor, with remarkable architectural elements such as arched doors, sill windows and armored sculptures. A chapel, now gone, was consecrated in 1560 by Bishop Jean Delphius.

In 1789, the command office became private property, and the chapel was destroyed in the 19th century. Major changes took place after 1862, partially altering the Renaissance Hall described by historians. Despite these changes, elements of origin remain, such as a sandstone column dated 1558 or armorial lintels used in other buildings in the area. The Tempelhof has been listed as a historical monument since 2000 for its facades, roof and interior decorations.

Notable architectural details include a sculpted console of angels and coat of arms, as well as a twisted wooden column, moved during renovations. Some elements, such as a six-shaped window, were transferred to nearby houses. The site also retains traces of the operating buildings added to the 20th century, illustrating its functional evolution over the centuries.

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