XXth century Romanesque St Jacques Church

Romanesque jewel of Sundgau, the church dates from 1144. Designed by Count Frédéric I de Ferrette as a burial place for himself and his family. Listed as a historical monument, the church is today the oldest in Alsace dedicated to St Jacques le Majeur. The pilgrims' path to Compostela passed through Feldbach, the crossroads of many ancient routes. These pilgrims came mainly from the Palatinate, passed through Strasbourg. The restored church was solemnly inaugurated on July 1, 3 by Mgr Brand, Auxiliary Bishop.

Find the Feldbach church on the Route Romane d'Alsace website!

Geocaching and treasure hunt enthusiasts, you will also find geocaches in this area!

FAQ – Romanesque Church of St. James in Feldbach

1. Why is St. James' Church in Feldbach an exceptional monument?
The Romanesque church of Saint-Jacques in Feldbach is a true gem of the Sundgau region's heritage. Dating from 1144, it was commissioned by Count Frederick I of Ferrette as a burial place for his family. A listed historical monument, it is now the oldest church in Alsace dedicated to Saint James the Greater, giving it significant historical and spiritual importance.

2. What is the link between the church and the pilgrims of Compostela?
Feldbach was a strategic crossroads on the ancient pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. Many pilgrims, particularly those from the Palatinate region passing through Strasbourg, stopped in the village. The Church of St. James bore witness to this tradition of hospitality and devotion, reinforcing Feldbach's role as an important spiritual stop on medieval European routes.

3. Who was responsible for the construction of the church?
The church was commissioned by Frederick I, Count of Ferrette, a prominent figure in medieval Sundgau. He wished to make it a burial place for himself and his lineage. This choice illustrates the power and influence of the Ferrette family, as well as the religious importance accorded to this site from the 12th century onwards.¿ century in the organization of the territory.

4. What are the architectural characteristics of the Romanesque church?
The Church of Saint-Jacques exhibits the typical characteristics of Romanesque art: simple volumes, solid walls, and harmonious proportions. Its architecture reflects medieval spirituality and the site's original funerary function. Restorations have preserved its authenticity while highlighting its original features, offering today a remarkable example of Alsatian Romanesque architecture.

5. When was the church restored and inaugurated?
Following extensive restoration, the Church of Saint James was solemnly inaugurated on July 3, 1977. The ceremony took place in the presence of Bishop Brand, Auxiliary Bishop. This restoration made it possible to preserve the monument and reopen it to the public, while respecting its history and heritage value.

6. What activities can be done around the church today?
The church in Feldbach is part of the Alsace Romanesque Route, allowing visitors to discover it within a broader heritage trail. The site is also popular with geocaching and treasure hunt enthusiasts, thanks to several geocaches located nearby. These activities offer a fun and original way to explore this historically rich place.