This Alsatian town has preserved its 16th-century Humanist Library, a UNESCO site, and two Gothic churches. Its Christmas traditions include the first recorded mention of decorated trees.
Between Strasbourg and Colmar in Alsace, Sélestat welcomes you with its medieval churches, Renaissance mansions, and half-timbered houses. Walk through the Humanist Library to see 7th-century manuscripts, explore the narrow streets of the old tanners' quarter, or find the document containing the oldest written mention of a Christmas tree from 1521. The town lies between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine river, with wild deer roaming freely in the nearby Illwald forest.
Getting to Sélestat
The town lies 42 kilometers south of Strasbourg and 25 kilometers north of Colmar. Trains run regularly on the Strasbourg-Basel line, with direct connections to major cities. By car, take the A35 motorway that runs through Alsace.
Medieval Churches and Architecture
Two medieval churches shape Sélestat's skyline. The 12th-century St. Faith's Church stands out with its red stone walls and twin towers, representing Romanesque architecture. St. George's Church, built between the 13th and 15th centuries, includes intricate stone carvings of biblical figures and a large rose window. Look up at the 15th-century stained glass windows in the choir, depicting scenes from the life of Christ.
The Humanist Library
Inside the modern building designed by Rudy Ricciotti, you'll find 450 medieval manuscripts and 2,000 16th-century prints. The collection includes books from the 7th century. The humanist scholar Beatus Rhenanus left his personal collection here, now recognized in UNESCO's Memory of the World Register. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM.
Walking Through the Old Town
Along the Quai des Tanneurs, pointed-roof buildings and half-timbered houses line the street where leather tanners once worked by the river. The 14th-century Clock Tower marks one of the town's former gates. The Renaissance-era Commanderie Saint-Jean now serves as the tourist office, where you can pick up maps and guided tour information.
Museums and Contemporary Art
At the Bread Museum (Maison du Pain d'Alsace), watch bakers demonstrate traditional techniques and try your hand at bread-making. The museum opens daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. The FRAC d'Alsace art center rotates contemporary art exhibitions throughout the year, bringing modern creativity into this medieval setting.
Natural Areas
Walk or cycle through the Illwald Regional Nature Reserve's alluvial forest and water meadows. The marked trails lead you past France's largest population of fallow deer. Rent kayaks to paddle on the Ill river from April to October. The reserve belongs to the Natura 2000 network due to its rare wetland ecosystem.
Annual Events
Each August since 1927, the Corso Fleuri fills the old town with flower-covered floats and street performers. February brings the Carnival of Machores, continuing medieval traditions with masked parades. Every two years, Sélest'Art places contemporary art installations throughout the town's streets and squares.
