The best walks and hikes around Marsal

The Collegiate Church of Saint-Léger de Marsal is a former collegiate church located in the French commune of Marsal, in the Moselle department. Originally built in the Romanesque style, it has undergone several significant modifications up to the present day. Dedicated to Saint Léger, the foundation stones of the current church were laid in the 12th century. The building was then in the Germanic tradition with a deep chevet and two oriented chapels, as well as an impressive Westwork, a western massif. The parish church was elevated to the title of collegiate church in 1222 by Abbess Clémence de Neumunster. She then installed a chapter of seven canons there. The collegiate church of Marsal has been united with that of Vic-sur-Seille since the 18th century.

Museum for the city's great son from the 17th century

On the edge of Vic-sur-Seille lies the former episcopal castle, an impressive remnant of the power of the bishops of Metz. Built from the end of the 12th century by Bishop Bertram, it served as both the residence and the administrative centre of the secular authority of the diocese. The castle was expanded in the 13th century into a pentagonal complex, fortified with semicircular towers and a deep moat. Under Bishop Thierry Bayer de Boppard (1365–1384), important restorations were carried out, including the construction of a south-west wing with access to the gardens and the “Grand Parc”. Of the original complex, only part of the residential building on the west side remains today, recognisable by the windows with niches. The most striking structure is the châtelet, the fortified entrance gate from the 15th century, with its white limestone machicolations and traces of a drawbridge. After its restoration in 2008, the castle is once again visible as a silent witness to the medieval power and strategic location of Vic-sur-Seille, especially in the context of salt mining and the rivalry with the Dukes of Lorraine.

Hôtel de la Monnaie (Vic-sur-Seille) This remarkable civil building, dating from 1456–1484, is often mistaken for a mint. In reality, it was probably the home of a wealthy money-changer, possibly the d’Hoffelize family. The building is a magnificent example of flamboyant Gothic architecture, with early Renaissance influences. The richly decorated facades and roofs have been protected as historical monuments since 1930.

The church of Salonnes has a rich history dating back to the 8th century, when it was built to house the relics of Saint-Privat and Saint-Hilaire. After being destroyed during conflicts over the salt mines and later the Thirty Years' War, it was rebuilt in 1540 and again in 1750. The most striking element is the Gothic portal, which is the only original part from the 16th century to have been preserved. Made of Jaumont stone, it features an accolade arcade flanked by pinnacles. Three Gothic niches above the double doors recall the ornate style of the late Gothic period.

Hôtel de la Monnaie (Vic-sur-Seille) This remarkable civil building, dating from 1456–1484, is often mistaken for a mint. In reality, it was probably the home of a wealthy money-changer, possibly the d’Hoffelize family. The building is a magnificent example of flamboyant Gothic architecture, with early Renaissance influences. Its richly decorated facades and roofs have been protected as historical monuments since 1930. It now houses the information office.

Very well preserved medieval house. It now houses the tourist information office.

The parish church of Saint-Privat, which at first glance looks ugly because of the concrete that covers its walls, is full of treasures. Built in the 8th century, it has been remodeled over time but retains a magnificent, finely crafted Gothic portal. Its ornaments representing various animals and plants give it a unique appearance. If you go through Salonnes, stop at the church!