Wettolsheim (1761 inhabitants), 5 km south-west of Colmar, is surrounded by vineyard slopes and overlooked by famous ruined castles : the Hohlandsbourg, the 3 Castles and, tucked away in the forest, the Hagueneck. To welcome visitors, Wettolsheim can offer 2 hotel-restaurants, 2 restaurants, 5 furnished apartments, 2 rural "gîtes" and 3 private guest rooms. The name "Wetelsheim" first appears in a document dated 1211, but the village dates back to the Frankish colonisation. The ancient origins of the village can be seen from traces of the old "Feldkirch" church (demolished in 1780) in the cemetery..

Over the past 30 years, the village has expanded, but numerous tastefully-restored old houses remain to charm the visitor.

 

 

The elegant spire of St Rémi's parish church emerges from the silhouette of the village. Of 19th century construction (1780-1782), it has splendid Baroque furnishings and a fine organ.
An impressive Grotto of Lourdes can be admired in the Rue du Château, an exact replica of the Massabielle Grotto that was constructed in 1912.Until its unfortunate demolition in 1960, the 18th century Martinsbourg castle stood on the site of today's Résidence du Château.

Of the Hagueneck castle (13th century), classified since 1932 as an historic monument, only a square keep and a rectangular outbuilding, with its romanesque windows and characteristic recessed benches, now remain.

 

Wettolsheim, the biggest viticultural locality in the Haut Rhin, produces a full range of Alsace wines, including those from the "Steingrubler" Grand Cru slope. About 85 families of winegrowers cultivate almost 450 hectares of vineyards, and the wines of Wettolsheim have long been renowned for their quality, elegance and bouquet.

WINE FESTIVAL
For more than 30 years, during the last weekend of July, the principal event of the year in the village is the Wine Fair. Numerous visitors throng the streets to enjoy themselves in a light-hearted way, appreciating the wines of Wettolsheim, the gastronomy and various activities taking place in the streets for the occasion.

 

 

HERITAGE BUILDINGS

Hagueneck castle (1200-1230) destroyed in 15th century. The Haguenecks were vassals of the Bishops of Strasbourg. (Open to the public).
• Grotto of Lourdes (copy of the Massabielle grotto) erected in memory of Mgr Schoepfer, Bishop of Lourdes-Tarbes at the time, who was born in Wettolsheim.

HIDDEN HERITAGE

Excavated Neolithic objects on display at Wettolsheim Town Hall (apply to : +33 (0)3 89 22 90 30).

 

HERITAGE OBJECTS

• Birgäntzlé organ (1789-1780) the organ factor's masterpiece.

WRITTEN HERITAGE

Municipal library, 5 rue de la 5e D.B.
Open
Wednesday 10:00 to 12:00 AM
Friday 5:00 to 7:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 to 12:00 AM.