Classicism began to gain a foothold in Alsace around the 18th Century, at a time when new churches were being built. It was inspired by ancient art and characterised by a preference for sober and symmetrical designs. The Alsatians' tastes during this period quickly focused on baroque art.
18th Century Sites
The baroque church of Ebersmunster is Alsace's leading baroque art masterpiece. Viewed from outside, its shape is characterised by its three double domed spires.
The mausoleum of the Maréchal de Saxe in the Church of St Thomas in Strasbourg is a wonderful example of French baroque sculpture.
Notre-Dame in Guebwiller features a neoclassical style unique of its kind in Alsace. The facade with its corner towers is particularly distinctive as a result of the combination of the Doric and Ionic orders and by its eight huge statues.