Imagine stepping back in time to 5000 years before our era. Here in Pfulgriesheim archaeological digs uncovered evidence of human life. Vases and animal bones tell a story of early settlers. They lived right where we stand.
Pfulgriesheim is a commune in the Bas-Rhin department. It sits in the Grand Est region of France. The village lies northwest of Strasbourg. It is accessible via the D41 road.
Pfulgriesheim’s history is complex. Its name first appeared in 1163 as Vulncriegesheim. Over the centuries different owners held sway here. In 1236 the Holy Roman Empire and the Bishopric of Strasbourg shared ownership. By 1350 the Bishopric was the sole owner. In the 16th century Pfulgriesheim belonged to the noble Andlau family. Later in 1774 Claude Jaccoud a wealthy Savoyard merchant acquired it.
Important farm buildings show the prosperity of the 18th century. Each farm had stables barns and courtyards. Today Pfulgriesheim still has agriculture. Farmers specialize in tobacco and asparagus.
Let’s talk about the Saint-Michel Church. It is a unique landmark in Pfulgriesheim. Built in the 18th century it stands on the site of a 12th-century church. The oldest part is the choir tower. Since 1685 the church has a special status. It is a simultaneum. Both Protestant and Catholic services occur here. This makes it unique in the Kochersberg area.
Have you heard of the flammekuche legend? Pfulgriesheim is said to be its birthplace. This Alsatian culinary art is a must-try.
Also Renè Eglès a well-known Liedermacher lives here. He is a composer poet and singer in the Alsatian language. He once directed the Protestant parish choir. Renè is a passionate defender of the Alsatian language.
Pfulgriesheim’s population grew in the 1970s. New housing developments increased its numbers. Agriculture declined from 63% in 1954 to 9.5% in 1975. Yet the mayor is still an agricultural worker.
The Kolbsenbach and Leisbach streams flow through Pfulgriesheim. The climate here is semi-continental. It has low rainfall especially in autumn and winter. Summers are warm and sunny.
Did you know Pfulgriesheim is part of the Strasbourg attraction area? It is considered a “commune de la couronne” or crown commune. This area includes 268 communes.
The municipal council decided to build a guardhouse next to the church in 1817. It also became the Melischhiessel or milk house. Farmers brought milk here. From 1989 it housed the fire brigade.
So as we conclude our visit to Pfulgriesheim remember its long history. From ancient settlements to its unique church and culinary legend Pfulgriesheim is a special place. It blends tradition with modern life.