Church of Saint-Louis
Saint-Louis is a Catholic church in the Finkwiller district, on Rue Saint-Louis, a few steps from the Ill quays. Rebuilt from 1825 to 1827 after its predecessor burned down, it hides late 19th-century furnishings behind a plain facade. A peaceful stop just off the busiest routes.
A church built twice
A first church dedicated to Saint Louis was built here in 1687. Sold in 1790 during the Revolution, it burned down in 1805. The present church was rebuilt between 1825 and 1827 in a very restrained neoclassical spirit. It is still a Catholic parish of the archdiocese and, since 2012, also hosts a community that celebrates in the Tridentine rite.
An interior richer than it looks
The altarpiece holds three statues from 1893: Saint Augustine, Saint Teresa of Ávila and Saint Louis. The pulpit was carved by Théophile Klem, and oil paintings by Martin Feuerstein tell the life of Saint Louis. The stained glass is by the Ott brothers, from the 1930s. In the gallery, the 1896 organ built by Charles and Edgard Wetzel sits in a neo-Baroque case by Paul Klein, protected as a historic monument.
The quiet side of the Finkwiller
The Finkwiller is a small district south of the Grande Île, along the Ill. Saint-Louis pairs easily with Saint-Nicolas church on the neighbouring quay and a walk along the water. As with any parish church, it is best enjoyed quietly, outside Mass times.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Church of Saint-Louis?
On Rue Saint-Louis in the Finkwiller district, south of the Grande Île, near the Ill quays.
What is there to see inside?
The 1893 altarpiece, Théophile Klem's pulpit, Martin Feuerstein's paintings, the Ott brothers' stained glass and the 1896 Wetzel organ.
What can you visit nearby?
Saint-Nicolas church on the neighbouring quay, then the Ill quays towards the Grande Île.
Wikimedia Commons — Nguyễn Mai Trang
