Church of Saint Peter and Paul of Andlau, Romanesque church in Andlau, France.
The Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Andlau is a Romanesque place of worship measuring 66 meters in length and decorated with elaborately carved entrance portals. These portals feature biblical narratives and everyday medieval scenes rendered in stone.
Pope Leo IX consecrated this building in 1049, establishing it as part of the Andlau Abbey complex for its Benedictine monks. The church remained central to monastic life and the region for many centuries afterward.
The carved decorations on the facade show both religious stories and scenes of daily medieval life, revealing how people worked and lived centuries ago. These details transform the building into a record of what mattered to those who created and worshipped here.
The church is open to visitors throughout the day, allowing time to walk around and observe the carved details from different angles. Organized groups can arrange guided visits in advance to learn more about the sculptures and the site's story.
The western entrance displays intricate relief carvings that rank among the most elaborate in the region, showcasing the skill of medieval stone carvers. A 15th-century statue of the Virgin and Child here attracts particular attention from visitors.
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