Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Kappelturm is a medieval vestige located in Obernai, Lower Rhine. Originally, a chapel dedicated to the Virgin was built shortly before 1285. It was enlarged in 1474 to become a church, named Kappelkirche (the chapel church). This monument illustrates the architectural and religious evolution of the region, with major transformations between the thirteenth and seventeenth centuries.

In 1596-1597, the bell tower was raised on one floor adorned with a sandstone courier, carved with fantastic characters and animals, by artisans Georg Wildemann (stone tailor) and Martin Voltz (carpenter). An inscription on the top floor attests to their contribution. In 1612, interior rearrangements added woodwork and a rosette, made by Jacob zum Steg. The nave, enlarged in 1679-1681, was finally demolished in 1875, leaving only the bell tower, now called Kappelturm.

Ranked a historic monument in 1980, the Kappelturm now houses an archive repository. It preserves remarkable elements such as two bells of the 15th century, a wall tabernacle, a sundial, and task marks. These remains bear witness to its past importance, both religious and architectural, in the Alsatian landscape. The site, owned by the municipality, remains a symbol of local heritage, although the choir's murals have disappeared.

External links