Delight in the exhibits of fine and decorative arts from the Alsace region at L’Oeuvre Notre Dame Museum (Musée de l’Œuvre Notre-Dame). The extensive catalog of masterpieces spans several centuries from the Romanesque period and showcases Strasbourg’s significance as a center for the arts. At the museum admire paintings, sculptures and stained-glass windows, all thoughtfully displayed in a group of ancient gabled houses.
The museum’s setting is the administrative headquarters of Fondation de l’Œuvre Notre-Dame, which has been responsible for the maintenance of Strasbourg Cathedral since 1224. Many of the artifacts on display were recovered from the cathedral and restored to their original glory. Within the sculpture collection see some of the best examples of Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance artwork ever produced in Europe.
See pieces by the Dutch sculptor Niklaus Gerhaert and figurines of two female religious characters called Ecclesia and Synagoga. Study still life paintings, such as Summer or the Five Senses by Sébastien Stoskopff. Other notable paintings are Saint Madeleine and Saint Catherine by Konrad Witz and Virgin of the Vine Trellis by Hans Baldung. Don’t miss the two gruesome characters portrayed in the Dead Lovers.
The exhibit of stained-glass windows is impressive, with delicate detail and vivid colors. Christ’s Head originated in the Wissembourg district and is one of the oldest recorded stained-glass windows. Work by the master Gothic glass artist Peter Hemmel von Andlau is also on display.
Located on Place du Château, on Grand Île island, the museum has a convenient location in the heart of Strasbourg’s historic center. Gare de Strasbourg railway terminal is a 20-minute walk away and buses and trams stop close by. Visit nearby attractions including Strasbourg Cathedral and Strasbourg Museum of Fine Arts.
L’Oeuvre Notre Dame Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and has an admission fee. Strasbourg’s museums have free entry on the first Sunday of every month. Purchase discounted passes for entry to all of the city’s museums.
