St Maurice's Church
St Maurice's is a neo-Gothic Catholic church in the Neustadt, on Place Arnold beside Avenue de la Forêt-Noire. A former garrison church built in the late 19th century, it bears witness to the German city built after 1871. A worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the broad avenues of the Neustadt.
The soldiers' church
St Maurice's was designed as Strasbourg's Catholic garrison church, when Alsace was part of the German Empire. Work began in November 1895, as the new Neustadt districts were taking shape, and the church was consecrated on 28 May 1899. Its name is no accident: Saint Maurice, a soldier martyr, was a natural patron for a military church.
Neo-Gothic by Ludwig Becker
The plans are by the architect Ludwig Becker from Mainz, whose design was chosen after a competition held in 1893. He opted for neo-Gothic, then a favourite style for churches across the Empire. Its tall spire serves as a landmark in this residential part of the Neustadt, with its stately apartment blocks and wide pavements. Step back on Place Arnold to take in the whole silhouette.
A stop in the Neustadt
St Maurice's makes most sense on a walk devoted to the Neustadt, the district built after 1871 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site alongside the Grande Île. Avenue de la Forêt-Noire links several parts of the district. The church is still an active parish, so step in quietly and plan your visit outside service times.
Frequently asked questions
Where is St Maurice's Church?
On Place Arnold, beside Avenue de la Forêt-Noire in the Neustadt, east of the historic centre.
What is special about it?
It is the former Catholic garrison church of the German city, in neo-Gothic style, consecrated in 1899 to plans by Ludwig Becker.
Can you visit it?
It is a parish church, so access depends on services and the day's opening. Please respect the quiet of the place.
Wikimedia Commons — Valentin R. from France · Wikimedia Commons — Flocci Nivis
