Mundolsheim

Beneath the shadow of Strasbourg, the vibrant town of Mundolsheim thrives. Mundolsheim isn’t just a suburb. It’s a place buzzing with life, a testament to resilience etched in timber and stone. Imagine Mundolsheim 5,000 years ago. Three farming villages dotted the landscape, laying the groundwork for the community we see today. The name Mundolsheim first appeared in 1120, hinting at a rich history waiting to be uncovered. A fortified castle, possibly located on Glöckelsberg where the botanical garden now blooms, is mentioned in 1198. Mundolsheim’s story is one of perseverance. From the 12th to the 18th centuries, the village endured numerous battles, particularly during the tumultuous Thirty Years’ War. Pillaged, destroyed, and burdened by heavy war contributions, Mundolsheim’s spirit remained unbroken. In 1644, Croatian forces sacked the village. During the Franco-Dutch War, soldiers demanded provisions, straining the already depleted resources. A violent storm further ravaged the region, destroying crops and exacerbating the hardships. The Imperial armies arrived in 1675, inflicting even more devastation than the Thirty Years’ War. Yet, Mundolsheim endured. Disaster struck again on January 5, 1815. During the Battle of La Souffel, fought by General Rapp to protect Strasbourg, Mundolsheim lost 39 houses and 84 other buildings in a single night. The remaining structures suffered significant damage, impacting 168 families. Despite this setback, Mundolsheim rebuilt, its timber-framed houses rising from the ashes, a symbol of the town’s indomitable spirit. One such survivor is the former forge at 36 rue du Général-de-Gaulle, a tangible link to the past, predating the 1815 fire. Today, Mundolsheim is a dynamic town, seamlessly blending its historical roots with modern enterprise. The Kirschbaum-Batterie, built between 1901 and 1902 on the historical site of Glöckelsberg, played a role in World War II, initially shelling the right bank of the Rhine. Though later dismantled, its remnants add another layer to Mundolsheim’s multifaceted history. Today, Mundolsheim boasts a vibrant cultural scene. From the mayor’s New Year’s greetings to the Christmas market in December, there’s always something happening. The town is home to various sports clubs, catering to a range of interests. Even singer M. Pokora spent his youth in Mundolsheim, attending the Paul-Émile-Victor College, a testament to the town’s nurturing environment. As you explore Mundolsheim, remember the echoes of its past, the struggles and triumphs that have shaped its character. From ancient villages to modern businesses, from fortified castles to botanical gardens, Mundolsheim’s story continues to unfold, inviting you to become a part of its ongoing narrative.