Ottmarsheim
Église Saints-Pierre-et-Paul
Presentation
The octagonal plan and four-storey elevation topped by an octagonal dome are directly inspired by the Palatine Chapel in Aachen. This former abbey was consecrated in 1050 by the Alsatian Pope
Leo IX. It is a Romanesque (or even Ottonian) interpretation of a Carolingian model. This rare example of a building with a centred plan is a jewel of early Romanesque architecture (11th century) in Alsace, as can also be seen in the use of small Brunstatt limestone rubble, which gives the building its special luminosity. The beautiful 15th-century frescoes under the vaulted ceiling of the upper choir and the gallery are also worth seeing.
The beautiful 15th-century frescoes under the vaulted ceiling of the upper choir and the gallery are also worth seeing.
Historique : In 1030, Rodolphe d’Altenbourg established a monastery dedicated to Saint Mary for Benedictine nuns on his estate in Ottmarsheim. In 1049, Leo IX (Pope of Alsace) consecrated the abbey and granted the nuns the protection of the Holy See.
Photo gallery
Get more info
The church at Ottmarsheim is a former abbey church. Its plan is centred on the Palatine Chapel in Aachen.
Count Rodolphe d’Altenbourg decided to build the church in 1030. The church was consecrated by Pope Leo IX in 1049. Intended for the use of nuns following the rule of Saint-Benoît, it remained an abbey church until 1790.
Associated locations
