The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Médard

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.

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.

Hikers have uploaded a much larger photo gallery with additional images of this beautifully situated pond to the Highlight (corresponding to this sport). Their photos of the "Etang de Lindre" can be found via the following link =>> https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/5427064

The Place Jeanne d’Arc is the lively and historic heart of Vic-sur-Seille. Surrounded by stately facades, this charming village square is the setting for both daily life and the city’s cultural heritage. At the heart of the square is the Musée départemental Georges de La Tour, dedicated to the famous Baroque painter who was born here in 1593. Opened in 2003, the museum houses masterpieces from the 17th to the early 20th century and offers a unique insight into the world of light and shadow that characterises La Tour.

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.

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