Villé: Discover Churches, History and Activities

Villé brings together several different points of interest for a stay: churches and architectural history, evidence of local history, and trails and activities. When looking for a hotel for your trip, you can plan according to whether you are most interested in architecture, the valley’s textile past, or recreational and sporting activities.

Churches and Architectural History

The Eglise Notre Dame de Villé was built from 1754 to 1758. Joseph Elmerich built it to plans by the architect Chassain. The church is Baroque; its nave is flanked by two side aisles, while the choir is designed in the neo-Gothic style. Different architectural forms thus come together in a single building. Distinguishing between the nave, side aisles and choir helps to understand the layout described.

The synagogue is also part of the town’s architectural and religious history. It was built in 1904 on Place de la Liberté for Villé’s Jewish community at the time. Following restoration, it was rededicated on November 6, 1955. The construction period and the later rededication mark different stages in its history.

Local History and Historic Sites

The former municipal cemetery of Villé lies next to the parish church and within the moat that once protected this district. It is listed in the Supplementary Inventory of Historic Monuments. Preserved there are numerous burial sites typical of the 19th century, with wrought-iron crosses and carved stelae. A monumental cross bearing the year 1673 stands in the middle of the cemetery.

Another historic ensemble is the Maison d’Ornano. This imposing 18th-century manor house comprises a residence, a barn, a stable, a cellar and a spacious orchard. The house was once intended to accommodate guests of the Lord of Villé, the Marquis de Choiseul-Meuse. This historic purpose describes the house’s former function, not a stay by any particular person.

Trails and Activities

The “Au fil de l’eau” Heritage Trail runs along former water channels. It explores early home-weaving activities and the development of the water-powered textile industry in Villé during the 19th century. The trail therefore combines a specific route along the channels with the town’s labor and industrial history.

Those who want to navigate using a map and clues can try the Parcours d’initiation à l’orientation. On this five-kilometer orienteering course, you search for 14 markers hidden in the forest. It takes about two hours and is open to everyone. Take the approximate duration into account when planning, and check the latest activity information in advance.

The Balade ludique à Villé is a fun walk through the village, with riddles along the way. It comes in three versions for children aged 4 to 12 and for the whole family. The two activities are therefore quite different: the orienteering course uses a map, clues and markers in the forest, while the village walk features riddles. Villé’s pump track is suitable for BMX bikes, mountain bikes and scooters. Check access arrangements before your visit.

Market and Travel Planning

The seasonal Marché Terroir et Traditions brings together producers, farmers and craftspeople from the valley. They showcase regional products and their craftsmanship. Musical entertainment, activities for children and refreshments on site are also part of the market. Check the latest dates and program before your trip.

Regular bus route 510 connects Villé and Sélestat. In Villé, the MJC, the market square and the former railway station are departure points or stops. As timetables and services may change, check the connection before travelling. This allows you to plan cultural sights, activities and travel information separately as part of your stay.

Discover more destinations: Morschwiller, Bischwiller, Marckolsheim, Roppenheim, Dieffenbach-Au-Val, Niederhaslach, Kintzheim, Oberbronn

For the overview of the wider region: Bas-Rhin.