Epfig

Visit Epfig, Alsace

Epfig stands in the open plains of the Bas-Rhin department (in the Alsace region of France) near Mittelbergheim and between Andlau and Ebersmunster.

The village centre is picturesque, with some traditionally painted (in bright colours) half-timbered houses around the Church of Saint-George (18th century). There is also a town hall with an unusual bell tower above.

Chapel of Saint-Margaret

The main reason that visitors are attracted here is to see the lovely little chapel on the edge of Epfig. The Chapel of Saint-Margaret (chapelle Sainte-Marguerite) is small yet perfectly formed (in the shape of a cross) and one of the little highlights of the region - note in particular the frescoed interior and vaulted ceiling, and the arcaded portion around the outside of the chapel.

The current chapel dates back to the 11th century, when it was built on the site of an even earlier chapel.

A more unusual 'feature' at Epfig chapel is the ossuary that contains hundreds of skulls and other bones. The origins of the bones are unclear, with more colourful stories telling that they are the skulls of those who died in a great battle near Epfig in the 16th century, and historians suggesting they are simply overflow from an overfull cemetery.

Attractions nearby

Enthusisats of religious architecture will want to visit the monastery at Mont-Saint-Odile, in a peaceful setting north-east of Epfig.

There are also several picturesque villages close to hand including Itterswilller and Mittelbergheim (listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France) among others.

Note: photo is copyright

Suggested places to visit near Epfig, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Mont-Sainte-Odile 10km; Selestat 11km; Obernai 12km; Kintzheim 13km; Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg 15km; Rosheim 15km; Le Struthof 18km; Bergheim 19km; Molsheim 21km; Ribeauville 21km; Hunawihr 23km; Riquewihr 25km; Kaysersberg 29km; Wasselonne 31km; Colmar 32km; Strasbourg 33km;

See these places and more on a map at places near Epfig

Epfig tourism: sights and attractions nearby

Itterswiller - ville fleurie 4* (2km) : Domaine du Windeck - remarkable garden (11km) : Parc du château de Kintzheim - remarkable garden (13km) : Diebolsheim - ville fleurie 4* (17km) : Le jardin de Marguerite - remarkable garden (23km) : Marckolsheim - ville fleurie 4* (23km) : Jardin du chateau de Kolbsheim - remarkable garden (24km) : Parc du domaine de Schoppenwihr - remarkable garden (26km) :

French version: see Epfig (Francais)