Hoenheim can be explored through three distinct themes: the architecture of a transport terminal, buildings dating from several centuries, and the landscape of the Etangs de la Vogelau. This offers different ways to plan a stay, without prescribing a set sightseeing itinerary. Those interested in architectural heritage will find medieval and more recent historical landmarks, as well as a theme in contemporary architecture. Those who prefer spending time outdoors can focus on the meadows, ponds, walking paths and birdlife of the Etangs.
Transport terminal and contemporary architecture
The “Terminal multimodal de Hoenheim-Gare” was designed by Zaha Hadid. The “Terminal multimodal d’Hœnheim” comprises a park-and-ride car park, a tram and bus station, a bicycle room and a retail unit. These facilities add a practical perspective on the transport hub to its architectural dimension: several modes of transport and a shop are part of the terminal as described. The “Terminal du tramway de Hoenheim” received the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture Mies van der Rohe in 2003. Architecture here is therefore not just a matter of design; its function as a transport facility is also part of the place’s character.
Building history across several eras
The Chapelle Saint-Jean offers several historical points of reference. Its Romanesque tower was built in the 12th century. It is square and has three storeys. The chapel, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, is first mentioned in writing in 1350. The two dates refer to different things: the 12th century indicates when the tower was built, while 1350 marks the chapel’s first written mention. This helps place the building’s history in context without treating the written mention as the date construction began. The historic centre of Hœnheim also includes a 19th-century church. It adds another chapter to the town’s architectural history alongside its medieval landmarks.
Another historic building is La maison bleue at 21 rue de la République. The house dates from 1746 and is listed in the inventory of historic monuments. It contains a mikveh, a ritual bath. This detail makes La maison bleue a distinct point of interest in the town’s history and broadens the picture beyond its religious buildings. Together, the Chapelle Saint-Jean, the church in the historic centre and La maison bleue represent not a single era, but a range of architectural and cultural landmarks.
Meadows, ponds and birdlife
The Etangs de la Vogelau offer a different focus. The area includes meadows, ponds and walking paths, and is home to numerous waterbirds and other birds. Those interested in landscapes and nature observation will find a subject here that differs clearly from the buildings and their history. The ecosystem is protected by the municipalities of Bischheim, Hœnheim and Schiltigheim. This shared protection is as much a part of the area’s character as its landscape features.
The Etangs de la Vogelau can be reached on line B, getting off at Le Ried. If you plan to use this connection for your outing, check the timetable for your intended travel date.
Plan your stay around your interests
When looking for a hotel in Hoenheim, you can first decide what you want to focus on during your stay: architectural history and architecture, or walking paths and birdlife. You can give these different themes whatever weight suits your interests; there is no need to follow a set order. For the Etangs, line B to Le Ried provides a specific travel option. Whether you focus more on the historic buildings or the landscape depends on the experiences you are looking for on your trip.
Discover more destinations: Soultz-Les-Bains, Muttersholz, Scharrachbergheim-Irmstett, Sundhouse, Birkenwald, Gœrsdorf, Stundwiller, Diemeringen.
Return to the regional travel guide: Bas-Rhin.
