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| # Wissembourg
**Wissembourg** (French pronunciation: [visɑ̃buʁ](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA/French); South Franconian: *Weisseburch* [ˈvaɪsəbʊʁç](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA/Standard_German); German: *Weißenburg* [ˈvaɪsn̩bʊʁk](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA/Standard_German)) is a commune in the [Bas-Rhin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bas-Rhin) department in [Grand Est](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Est) in northeastern [France](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France). The town is steeped in history, its origins tracing back to the 7th century with the founding of the [Weissenburg Abbey](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weissenburg_Abbey,_Alsace), a Benedictine monastery that played a pivotal role in the region's religious and cultural development. The name *Wissembourg* is a Gallicized version of *Weißenburg*, meaning "white castle," reflecting its Germanic roots. The Latin name *Sebusium* is occasionally found in ecclesiastical sources, adding another layer to its historical nomenclature.
Wissembourg was a sub-prefecture of the Bas-Rhin department until 2015, underscoring its administrative significance in the region. The town's strategic location near the border with Germany has made it a focal point in numerous historical conflicts, including the [Franco-Prussian War](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franco-Prussian_War) and both World Wars. Its history is a tapestry of shifting allegiances, having been annexed by France after the [Peace of Westphalia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peace_of_Westphalia) in 1648, incorporated into Germany in 1871 following the [Treaty of Frankfurt](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treaty_of_Frankfurt_(1871)), returned to France in 1919 under the [Treaty of Versailles](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treaty_of_Versailles), reincorporated into Germany during [Nazi occupation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazi_Germany) in 1940, and finally restored to France in 1944 after the [Colmar Pocket](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colmar_Pocket) campaign.
## Geography
Wissembourg is situated on the banks of the [Lauter River](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lauter_(Rhine)), a tributary of the Rhine, which forms part of the border between France and Germany. The town lies approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of [Strasbourg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strasbourg) and 35 kilometers (22 miles) west of [Karlsruhe](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karlsruhe), Germany. This proximity to major urban centers and its location along the Lauter River have historically made Wissembourg a significant crossroads for trade and military movements.
The landscape surrounding Wissembourg is characterized by rolling wheat fields and vineyards, typical of the Alsace region. The town itself is nestled in a valley, with the Vosges Mountains providing a scenic backdrop to the east. The [Wissembourg station](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wissembourg_station) serves as a vital transportation hub, offering rail connections to Strasbourg, Haguenau, and Landau in Germany, facilitating both regional and international travel.
## History
### Early History and the Abbey
The history of Wissembourg is inextricably linked to the [Weissenburg Abbey](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weissenburg_Abbey,_Alsace), a Benedictine monastery founded in the 7th century, possibly under the patronage of [Dagobert I](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dagobert_I), the Merovingian king. The abbey quickly became a center of learning and culture, amassing vast territories and wealth. Among its notable contributions is the work of the monk [Otfrid of Weissenburg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otfrid_of_Weissenburg), who composed a gospel harmony in the late 9th century, marking one of the earliest substantial works of verse in the German language.
The abbey church of [Saints Peter and Paul](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Peter_and_St._Paul%27s_Church,_Wissembourg), constructed in the 13th century under the direction of Abbot Edelin, stands as a testament to the town's medieval architectural prowess. The church, secularized during the French Revolution, was stripped of its treasures but later became the parish church of Wissembourg, earning the distinction of being the largest parish church in Alsace, second only to the [Strasbourg Cathedral](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strasbourg_Cathedral).
### Medieval and Early Modern Period
In 1354, Emperor [Charles IV](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emperor_Charles_IV) incorporated Wissembourg into the [Décapole](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%A9capole), an alliance of ten imperial cities in Alsace. This alliance, which included towns such as [Haguenau](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haguenau), [Colmar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colmar), and [Mulhouse](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mulhouse), was designed to protect the interests of these cities within the Holy Roman Empire. The Décapole survived the annexation by France under [Louis XIV](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_XIV) in 1678 but was ultimately dissolved during the French Revolution.
The town's medieval fortifications, including the Schartenturm and remnants of the moats, date back to the 11th century under the direction of Abbot Samuel. The town was further fortified in the 13th century, with many of these structures still visible today. The [Lines of Wissembourg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lines_of_Weissenburg), a series of defensive works extending to Lauterbourg, were originally constructed by the French military engineer [Claude Louis Hector de Villars](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claude_Louis_Hector_de_Villars) in 1706. These fortifications played a crucial role in the town's defense during the 18th century, notably during the [War of the Austrian Succession](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_of_the_Austrian_Succession).
### 18th and 19th Centuries
The 18th century saw significant changes in Wissembourg's urban landscape. A devastating fire in 1677 destroyed many houses and the Hôtel de Ville, leading to the construction of a new town hall between 1741 and 1752. The [Maison du Sel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maison_du_Sel,_Wissembourg), built in 1448, served as the town's first hospital and remains a notable example of medieval architecture. The town also became a refuge for prominent figures, including [Stanisław Leszczyński](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanis%C5%82aw_Leszczy%C5%84ski), the exiled king of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, who resided in Wissembourg from 1719 to 1725.
The [First Battle of Wissembourg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Battle_of_Wissembourg_(1793)) in 1793 marked a significant event during the French Revolutionary Wars. The town's strategic importance was further highlighted during the [Franco-Prussian War](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franco-Prussian_War), with the [Battle of Wissembourg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Wissembourg_(1870)) on August 4, 1870, serving as the first major engagement of the conflict. The Prussian victory, led by [Crown Prince Frederick](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_III,_German_Emperor) and his chief of staff [Leonhard Graf von Blumenthal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonhard_Graf_von_Blumenthal), allowed the Prussian army to advance into France. The Geisberg monument and the town's cemetery, which contains the tomb of French General [Abel Douay](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abel_Douay), commemorate this battle.
### 20th Century to Present
The 20th century brought further turmoil to Wissembourg, as it was incorporated into Germany during both World Wars. Following the [Battle of France](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_France) in 1940, the town was reincorporated into Nazi Germany but was liberated by Allied forces in 1944. In 1975, the commune of Wissembourg absorbed the former commune of Altenstadt, further expanding its administrative boundaries.
Today, Wissembourg is a vibrant town that blends its rich historical heritage with modern amenities. Its well-preserved medieval architecture, including timber-framed houses, the [Dominican Church](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominican_Church,_Wissembourg), and the [Château du Geisberg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C3%A2teau_du_Geisberg), attracts tourists from around the world. The town also serves as a cultural hub, with the former Dominican church now functioning as the cultural center "La Nef."
## Population
The population of Wissembourg has remained relatively stable over the past few decades, with slight fluctuations reflecting broader demographic trends in the region. According to data from the [National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/INSEE_code), the population was 7,541 in 2022, with a population density of 156.5 inhabitants per square kilometer.
| Year | Population | ±% p.a. |
|------|------------|----------|
| 1968 | 6,466 | — |
| 1975 | 6,784 | +0.69% |
| 1982 | 7,311 | +1.07% |
| 1990 | 7,443 | +0.22% |
| 1999 | 8,170 | +1.04% |
| 2007 | 7,978 | −0.30% |
| 2012 | 7,757 | −0.56% |
| 2017 | 7,537 | −0.57% |
The town's demographic stability is a testament to its enduring appeal as a place to live and work, balancing its historical charm with modern infrastructure and amenities.
## Transport
Wissembourg is well-connected to regional and international transportation networks. The nearest airports include:
- [Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden_Airport), located 48 kilometers (30 miles) southeast.
- [Strasbourg Airport](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strasbourg_Airport), located 82 kilometers (51 miles) south.
- [Frankfurt Airport](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankfurt_Airport), located 150 kilometers (93 miles) north.
- [EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EuroAirport_Basel_Mulhouse_Freiburg), located 191 kilometers (119 miles) south.
The town's rail connections, provided by the Wissembourg station, offer convenient access to major cities such as Strasbourg, Haguenau, and Landau, making it an ideal base for exploring the broader Alsace region and beyond.
## Notable People
Wissembourg has been home to a number of notable individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields:
- **Otfrid of Weissenburg** (c. 800 – after 870 AD): A monk at the Weissenburg Abbey, known for his gospel harmony, one of the earliest substantial works of verse in the German language.
- **Justus Ludwik Decjusz** (1485–1545): A Polish burgher and diplomat of German origin, notable for his role in 16th-century Kraków.
- **Martin Bucer** (1491–1551): A Protestant reformer who influenced Lutheran, Calvinist, and Anglican doctrines and practices.
- **Stanisław Leszczyński** (1677–1766): King of Poland from 1704 to 1709, who lived in exile in Wissembourg from 1719 to 1725.
- **Charles de Foucauld** (1858–1916): A French cavalry officer, explorer, and Catholic priest who lived among the Tuareg in the Sahara.
- **Julie Velten Favre** (1833–1896): A philosopher and educator.
- **Jean-Pierre Hubert** (1941–2006): A science-fiction writer.
- **Christophe Bertrand** (1981–2010): A composer of contemporary classical music.
- **Drew Heissler** (1983–): An American roots musician and songwriter, known professionally as Pokey LaFarge, whose family emigrated from Wissembourg/Alsace.
## Sights
Wissembourg boasts a wealth of historical and architectural landmarks that reflect its rich cultural heritage:
- **Church of Saints-Pierre et Paul**: The former Benedictine monastery church, now the parish church of Wissembourg, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It is the largest parish church in Alsace, second only to the Strasbourg Cathedral.
- **St John's Church**: A Lutheran church that showcases the town's religious diversity.
- **St Ulrich's Church**: A Romanesque church located in Altenstadt, offering a glimpse into the region's medieval past.
- **Dominican Church**: Now serving as the cultural center "La Nef," this 13th-century church is a testament to the town's historical significance.
- **Maison du Sel**: A medieval building that once served as the town's first hospital.
- **House of l'Ami Fritz**: A Renaissance building that inspired the Romantic novel *L'ami Fritz* by Erckmann and Chatrian, which later became the basis for Mascagni's opera *L'amico Fritz*.
- **Town Hall**: A Baroque masterpiece designed by Joseph Massol, reflecting the town's administrative importance.
- **Château du Geisberg**: A historic castle that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
## See Also
- [Communes of the Bas-Rhin department](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communes_of_the_Bas-Rhin_department)
- [Château Saint-Rémy d'Altenstadt](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C3%A2teau_Saint-R%C3%A9my_d%27Altenstadt)
- [Décapole](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%A9capole)
- [Free Imperial Cities](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Free_imperial_city)
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