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Origin and history

The house at 15 rue Berthe-Molly, located in Colmar in the Haut-Rhin department, is a historical monument dating back to the 3rd quarter of the 16th century. The building is distinguished by its richly carved Renaissance gate dating from 1566, which gives access to an inner courtyard. This portal, flanked by pilasters, is a remarkable example of the civil architecture of the Alsatian Renaissance, combining elegance and sculptural symbolism.

At the back of the gate, a partially carved stone screw staircase leads to the upper floors. Its cage, illuminated by diamond windows with a Renaissance profile, ends with an octagonal turret with a pointed roof. These elements, including the gate and turret, were listed as historic monuments on June 18, 1929, recognizing their outstanding heritage value.

The building, originally located 15 Jewish Street (former name of Berthe Molly Street), has undergone partial changes over the centuries, but retains significant traces of its original construction. The Jewish street, mentioned in the archives, evokes the medieval and reborn past of Colmar, marked by an active Jewish community before his expulsion in 1553 (although not directly related to this house). The building thus illustrates the urban and architectural evolution of the city between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

Today, the house is located in a historic area of Colmar, reflecting the artistic and economic influence of the city during the Renaissance. Its portal, with its detailed sculptures, reflects the influence of local artisans and cultural exchanges with Rhine Europe. Although the sources do not specify its initial use (bourgeois housing, commerce, etc.), its architecture suggests an easy owner, typical of the colmarian elite of the time.

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