Just as Moses came down from the mountain, so did we (although not with any commandments), following a winding road that looked inviting. As I previously mentioned, just as we were ready to turn around, we spotted a sign for “Lautenbach.” As that’s the maiden name of my s-i-l (the one married to my brother, not the one I was visiting), I asked to stop so I could take a photo of the sign. Then we spotted an attractive church steeple and another beautiful detour was begun.
Lautenbach is a very German name but this part of France, the Alsace, has been part of Germany more than once. The town is beautiful and in the center is St. Michael Collegiate Church. Although the church looks old, as tourisme-alsace.com says:
“The former collegiate church of Saint Michael-and-Gangolphe underwent many transformations over the centuries. The nave probably dates from the 11th century, the transept, the choir and the flat chevet from the 12th century. Its vaulted porch is one of the finest in the region. The building is, however, completely restored in 1859. Decorations and additions, such as the towers, implemented by the architect of the 19th century, are questionable although they do not alter the overall aesthetic. Guided tours for groups all year round on appointment at the Guebwiller Tourism Office.”
No matter when it was built or that is was restored, it’s beautiful and worth a visit. The pipe organ has been classified as a historic monument. Let me share a few photos and let you decide.
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