Oberhergheim lies on the River Ill and combines historical landmarks with walking routes and opportunities to observe nature. Local history stretches from the first mention of Saint-Léger Church in 1262 to the Canal Vauban, built at the end of the 17th century to supply water. At the same time, the Sentier de l’Ill and the Hergheim Trail offer different ways to explore the outdoors: one runs along the dike to Biltzheim, while the other is described as a circular route. At the ponds of the Thurwald, the focus is on walks and observing wildlife and plant life. This makes it possible to explore Oberhergheim through its cultural heritage, waterway history and nature experiences.
Church History and Geodetic Stele
Saint-Léger Church was first mentioned in 1262. The earlier church was destroyed in 1843; the new church was completed in 1844, based on plans by the architect Laubser. The period between the first mention and the new building thus encompasses several historical stages: 1262 marks the early mention, while 1844 marks the completion of the new building. This distinction is useful for understanding the town’s history, as it reveals a series of changes rather than a single construction date.
The geodetic stele is a separate monument of note. It was erected in 1804 and listed as an immovable monument on 5 December 1979. Its pyramidal shape consists of a base and six stone blocks stacked on top of one another. It is surrounded by an irregular circle of twelve marker stones with rounded tips. The date and its distinctive form go hand in hand: the stepped structure and surrounding marker stones together define the stele’s appearance.
The Canal Vauban and Its Purpose
The history of the waterways can also be understood in terms of a clearly defined purpose. The Canal Vauban was built between Ensisheim and Oberhergheim at the end of the 17th century to supply water to the canal between Rouffach and Neuf-Brisach, construction of which began in 1697. The town’s history thus features two related projects, described with different dates: the construction of the Canal Vauban and the start of work on the canal it supplied. Understanding the canal therefore involves more than its name; its water-supply function also matters.
Walking Routes: Two Different Options
The two walking routes should be distinguished. The Sentier de l’Ill runs from Oberhergheim along the dike to Biltzheim. The signposted Hergheim Trail follows a different route: it starts, among other places, in Oberhergheim and is described as a 12.5-kilometre circular route taking three hours. It offers a way to explore the local natural and cultural heritage, the Sentier de l’Ill and the Canal Vauban. The Hergheim Trail is considered accessible to everyone, with no major difficulties. Thus, the Sentier de l’Ill focuses on the route to Biltzheim, while the Hergheim Trail is a circular route with a stated duration. Check local trail conditions and current route details before setting out.
Walks and Nature Watching
The ponds of the Thurwald provide a suitable setting for walks and for observing the area’s wildlife and plant life. As ecological conditions can change, the wildlife and plant life you can observe may also vary. This focus on nature complements the historical landmarks and walking routes with another way to spend time in Oberhergheim.
Discover more destinations: Fellering, Wegscheid, Wintzfelden, Saint-Hippolyte, Stosswihr, Rammersmatt, Urbès, Hohrod
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