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> Regional culture > Architecture
The Renaissance and classical period architecture
The Renaissance
From the 13th century onwards, the whole of the Rhineland area witnessed the rapid growth of merchant towns. A large number of public buildings were erected as a result, with the "golden age" of this movement being the 16th century. The towns of Alsace took on a whole new identity thanks to the elaborately decorated arsenals, halls and town halls. The sumptuous mansions surrounding these buildings quickly followed this trend, particularly in Colmar, Strasbourg and Riquewihr. Even the smaller towns were affected by this growth, with the city halls of the towns of Obernai, Rouffach, Molsheim, Kaysersberg and Guebwiller being built during this period. The Palais du Neubau in Strasbourg, the Palais de la Régence in Ensisheim, the Palais de la Metzig in Molsheim and the Maison des Têtes in Colmar offer outstanding examples of the Renaissance style. The roofs are often pointed, partly hidden by finely worked gables, featuring volutes combined with pinnacle turrets or tiered designs. Most of the buildings dating from this period include polygonal staircase turrets in addition to oriel windows (glazed canopies providing a view across the street and natural daylight for the rooms). Carved or painted timber framing, cast iron signs and sculptures were all extra touches often used to enhance the overall effect.
The classical period
Very much in fashion in Paris, classicism also had a major influence on Alsatian architecture from the 18th century onwards. Classical architecture is characterised by a rational study of the styles inherited from antiquity, while at the same time seeking to achieve symmetrical balance.
The Rohan Palaces in Strasbourg and Saverne, the Palais du Conseil Souverain in Colmar and the Hôpital Civil (Civil Hospital) in Strasbourg are among the best examples of classicism in Alsace.
