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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Saint-Wendelin Chapel, located on Rue des Quatre-Vents in Hochfelden (Bas-Rhin, Grand Est), is a historic monument registered since 1982. Its construction mainly dates back to the first half of the 15th century, as evidenced by an engraved inscription dated 1435, mentioning the names of Henri d'Achenheim, Nicolas Schorlin and Jean Lobel, designated as Baumeister (masters or sponsors). The Gothic-style building features a disoriented peg tower, broken arched bays, and architectural details such as missing sills or quadrilobes. His choir, with a braided base, and his nave lambrished reflect the techniques of the time.

In the 18th century, the chapel underwent major changes: furniture was renewed, bays were pierced (a door dated 1732), and baroque elements, such as a cast iron stand, were added. An inscription of 1694 attests to the renovation of the nave ceiling under the impulse of the parish priest Elias Christophorus Seitz and local receivers. As early as the 15th century, the chapel, although dependent on the parish of Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, acquired parish functions (baptism, cemetery), without ever becoming the main church. His cemetery, now disused, preserves some ancient tombs.

The building houses a pilgrimage dedicated to Saint Wendelin, mentioned since 1360, although nothing remains of the original medieval chapel. The architects of the 15th century, Henri d'Achenheim (sheep and receiver), Nicolas Schorlin and Jean Lobel (receivers), are associated with its reconstruction. Their dual role as workmaster and sponsor (Baumeister) underscores the local importance of this place of worship. In the 18th century, two secondary altars, now transferred to the church of Albé, testify to the liturgical and artistic evolutions of the period.

The chapel is distinguished by its mix of styles: Gothic (broken arches, warheads) and Baroque (volutes, door in segmental arch). The structure of the nave, probably of origin, contrasts with the additions of the 17th and 18th centuries, like the 1717 gate on the first floor of the tower. The task marks and inscriptions (dalles, panelling) offer tangible traces of its constructive history. Owned by the municipality, it remains a symbol of Alsatian religious heritage, between medieval tradition and modern adaptations.

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