Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The House of Salt, located 2-2a rue du Marché-aux-Poissons in Wissembourg (Bas-Rhin), is a historic monument registered since 1998. Its architecture combines Gothic elements (15th century) and Renaissance, such as the Meneau windows of Rue des Bouchers. The building, probably built in 1448 according to an inscription in German, was originally home to a sick room more than five meters high, supported by four central posts. Its impressive height preserves traces of medieval structure with third-wood assemblages and arond tail.

Originally a hospital (attested in the Bruch as early as 1234), the building also served as a slaughterhouse (Metzig) between 1526 and 1550, then as a salt store (Salzhaus) from 1578 onwards, while welcoming military patients on time. In the 18th century, major restorations altered the North Gable and the frame, including the removal of the Spitalglocke bell tower. Sold as a national property in 1792, the house lost its lantern in 1800 after several changes of owners.

The commemorative inscription of 1448, redone in 1905, mentions directors Hans Ooschmann and Peter Kosgler, as well as receiver Hans Kolben. A vaulted vaulted vault, reported in 1775 by Benoît de Neuflieu, remains uncertainly located. The building illustrates the evolution of urban uses, from medieval hospitality to salt storage – a strategic resource under the Old Regime – before becoming a Wissembourg heritage symbol.

The facades (outside the west balcony), the roof with its structure and the structures of the patient room have been protected since 1998. The house is distinguished by its massive volume and its roof on four levels pierced with skylights, reflecting architectural transformations over six centuries. Modern bays on the Lauter side contrast with preserved Renaissance elements, reflecting successive restoration campaigns.

The ground floor, redesigned but preserving medieval remains, evokes the original unified space. The attic, built on two levels, still houses parts of the original structure, while a 15th century Gothic tympanum is preserved in the attic. These details highlight the functional and stylistic duality of the monument, between hospital heritage and subsequent adaptations.

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