Mount Sainte-Odile

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Looking out over the plain of Alsace, Mount Sainte-Odile was an influential convent for many centuries. Today, it has been converted into a hotel and this sacred place once dedicated to Odile, the patron saint of Alsace, still attracts many pilgrims. However, Mount Sainte-Odile also welcomes a number of non-believers who simply wish to profit from the natural woodlands surrounding the area. Hikers can stride along the sign-posted paths and discover, in particular, the pagans' wall built in around 1000 BC whose origins have given rise to a number of mystic speculations !

The site was inhabited in the Prehistoric era (as proved by the "Pagans Walls" built c. 1000 B.C.). During the Merovingian period, Saint Odile, daughter of Duke Adalric, founded a monastery which soon flourished. The monastery was destroyed in the Middle Ages and then rebuilt by Abbess Herrade de Landsberg who wrote the "Hortus Deliciarum", a sort of Christian encyclopaedia. Mount Sainte-Odile was devastated and desecrated throughout the centuries until it became a property of the Bishop of Strasbourg in 1853. Saint Odile is revered as the patron saint of Alsace. Romanesque chapel, 17th c. church, remarkable panoramic view. Site well-worth visiting. A footpath leads round the rocky hillock on which the monastery is perched. Saint Odile spring is at the foot of the hillock. Pilgrimages : 1st Sunday in July, Assumption, Feast of the Blessed Virgin, December 13th. Guided visits for groups : contact the St Odilia's Monastery.<br/><br/>What you can visit there<br/><br /> <br /> The Tomb Chapel, containing the sarcophagus of St. Odile and 18th century paintings recounting her life and legend - the cloister with its inner garden and its fresco recounting the life of John the Baptist - the panoramic terrace and its two chapels (the Chapel of Angels and the Chapel of Tears) - the stations of the cross created by the Spindler Art Marquetry, in the church - the miraculous spring, reached by a series of steps (about a 20 min. walk).

Nestled high in the Vosges mountains, in a peaceful setting overlooking the Alsace plain, the Sanctuaire du Mont Sainte-Odile offers a captivating experience for visitors seeking discovery and natural beauty.<br /> <strong>Explore the history of Mont Sainte-Odile</strong><br />Immerse yourself in the centuries-old history of Mont Sainte-Odile. Immerse yourself in Alsace's cultural heritage by visiting the tomb of Sainte Odile, patron saint of Alsace, as well as the cloister decorated with a fresco depicting the life of Saint John the Baptist.<br /> <strong>An exceptional marquetry Stations of the Cross</strong><br />In the sanctuary church, marvel at the Spindler marquetry Stations of the Cross, a unique work of art that testifies to the talent and creativity of this world-renowned marquetry workshop.<br /> <strong>Breathtaking views</strong><br />Don't miss the panoramic view from Mont Sainte-Odile, offering a breathtaking perspective of the Alsace plain and the peaks of the Vosges. It's the perfect opportunity to admire the region's picturesque landscapes and take some superb souvenir photos.<br /> <strong>Plan your visit</strong><br />Whether you're a history buff, a pilgrim or simply looking for some peace and quiet in the heart of nature, the Sanctuary of Mont Sainte-Odile is sure to win you over. Get ready for a memorable getaway in the heart of Alsace.