Attraction Guide: Musée de l'Œuvre Notre-Dame, Strasbourg, France

Musée de l'Œuvre Notre-Dame Guide

Musée de l'Œuvre Notre-Dame: A Journey Through Alsatian Art Guide

Delve into the rich artistic heritage of Alsace at the Musée de l'Œuvre Notre-Dame, located in a charming medieval building right next to Strasbourg Cathedral. This museum houses an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance art from the region, including sculptures, paintings, stained glass, and architectural fragments. It's a must-visit for art lovers and anyone interested in the history of Strasbourg and Alsace. The Musée de l'Œuvre Notre-Dame is housed in a building that was originally the workshop of the stonemasons responsible for building and maintaining Strasbourg Cathedral. The "Œuvre Notre-Dame" (literally "Work of Our Lady") was the organization that oversaw the cathedral's construction and artistic decoration. Over time, the workshop accumulated a collection of original sculptures, architectural models, and other artifacts related to the cathedral. In the 19th century, this collection was formally established as a museum. Explore the museum's diverse collection, admiring masterpieces of Alsatian art. Highlights include original sculptures from Strasbourg Cathedral, such as the famous "Head of Christ," as well as works by renowned artists like Nicolas Gerhaert de Leyde and Veit Wagner. Don't miss the collection of stained glass, which offers a glimpse into the vibrant colors and intricate designs of medieval windows. While the museum itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, its location in the heart of Strasbourg means you're surrounded by opportunities to sample Alsatian cuisine. Be sure to try a traditional baeckeoffe (a hearty meat and potato stew) or a kugelhopf (a sweet yeast cake).