Discover Wittenheim: Mining history and nature

Wittenheim was shaped for almost a century by potash mining, which influenced the town’s development, landscape and identity. The history of mining is as much a part of the town’s character as its churches, parks and woodland landscapes. Wittenheim therefore brings together industrial history and remembrance with outdoor trails and culture. Visitors who choose the town as a destination can explore these highlights individually or in combination, depending on their interests.

Mining history and remembrance

In the Sainte-Barbe district stands the Chevalement Théodore, one of the last surviving reminders of Wittenheim’s mining era. The iron headframe of the Théodore mine was built between 1957 and 1958. The Théodore mine has been partially listed as a Monument historique since 17 August 1995.

The Mémorial des Mineurs consists of a monument depicting a miner and four pillars. Originally, the names of 827 people who had died in mining accidents were engraved on the pillars. The Mémorial aux victimes d’accidents aux Mines de Wittenheim was inaugurated in 2012. The Carreau Théodore in Wittenheim houses a memorial to the victims of mining. The Chevalement represents the architectural side of the mining era; the memorials draw attention to the people who lost their lives in mining.

Parks, woodland and exercise

Parc du Rabbargala covers six hectares of natural space and has a 3.6-kilometre promenade. The park has three wooden playgrounds, one of which is wheelchair accessible. Facilities may change, so check the current status of the playgrounds before your visit.

The Nonnenbruch Forest stretches along the edge of Wittenheim’s Fernand Anna and Sainte-Barbe districts. Its features include steppe clearings, spoil heaps and former quarries that have become ponds. Marked trails cross the area and connect several municipalities.

The 90-hectare Mittelfeld urban agriculture area also runs through Wittenheim. It adds the aspect of urban agriculture to the landscape. For exercise, there is also the Parcours Vita: set in green surroundings, it combines walking, running and strengthening exercises. It starts on Rue de Colmar and is freely accessible year-round.

Churches and culture

The Sainte-Marie parish church is part of Wittenheim’s historical and religious heritage; its construction history includes building campaigns in 1770 and 1959. The Sainte-Barbe parish church has a different historical emphasis: it was built by the Alsatian potash mines and is decorated with paintings by Georges Desvallières. The two churches represent different historical associations: Sainte-Marie, with its dated building campaigns, and Sainte-Barbe, with its connection to mining and its paintings.

The Cinéma Gérard Philipe has been operating since 1992 and screens current releases every week. A cycle of heritage films complements the programme.

Discover more destinations: Soultzeren, Bischwihr, Friesen, Ranspach-Le-Bas, Zimmersheim, Mittelwihr, Sainte-Croix-aux-Mines, Flaxlanden.

For the wider travel overview: Haut-Rhin.