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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Lutheran temple of Clairegoutte, located in Haute-Saône, is a Protestant building built mainly in the eighteenth century. It replaces a medieval church dedicated to Notre-Dame, transformed into a Reformed temple after the Reformation. The present building, almost entirely rebuilt in 1734, preserves elements of the 15th and 17th centuries, such as a 17th century pulpit and baptismal fonts rebuilt in 1967. Its stone bell tower, erected in 1777, replaces a wooden precedent and has an imperial dome typical of the region.

The interior of the temple is characterized by an 18th century oak gallery, in a Württemberge style, added to accommodate the faithful of the nearby village of Frédéric-Fontaine. This change resulted in the closure and reopening of the rosace in 1966-1967, adorned by a stained glass window depicting the Bon Berger by Étienne Lovy. The other non-figurative stained glass windows and a Hungarian oak cross (1966) complete the sober decor. Three tin sharpeners, classified as historical monuments in 1966, bear witness to its liturgical use.

The temple underwent several major restorations, notably in 1849 and after the damage caused by tornadoes in March 1967, which damaged the bell tower. It has been included in the inventory of historical monuments since 1991 and illustrates the history of Protestantism in Upper Saône. The sandstone flight of the perron was restored in 1990, preserving its majestic appearance. Its architecture, mixing local tradition (painted tiles) and Protestant influences, makes it a remarkable heritage.

The parish, attached to the United Protestant Church of France, perpetuates a religious tradition rooted since the Middle Ages. The temple also maintains a clock dating from 1866 and classified furniture elements, reflecting its central role in the community. Its location in Clairegoutte, in the Natural Park of Ballons des Vosges, strengthens its territorial and historical anchor.

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