PRIORALE CHURCH - LA ROSE D'OR

Erected in 1722 on the remains of an ancient Romanesque church, the Priorale is the most important of all Saint-Quirin's religious buildings. It is also a place of remarkable architecture. The priory comprises two main buildings. The pedestrian gateway is topped by a Baroque rocaille decoration, contrasting with the sober character of the architecture. The three medallions feature a horseman, Saint Quirin in armor, a cross and a martyr's palm. The south-east corner features a watchtower decorated with stained-glass windows.

The prioral church is built of Vosges sandstone. The two bell towers are topped by three bulbs covered in flaked slate, giving the monument an undeniable power and majesty. The small bell tower above the choir has two bulbs. The light sandstone portal features two registers of Doric columns surmounted by a pediment and a niche housing a statue of Saint Quirin, with the church dedication engraved in Latin below.

Inside, the monument exudes a sober, majestic harmony thanks to the Baroque architecture and furnishings of the highest artistic quality. These include the oak panelling on the walls, the confessionals and the pulpit, crowned by the angel of the Last Judgement. The high altar is remarkable, especially the tabernacle richly decorated with rocaille motifs. Behind the altar, the commemorative sculpted group to the glory of Saint Quirin deserves particular attention. Major elements of devotion to the martyred saint, the relics are preserved in the shrine of Saint Quirin and his daughter Saint Balbine, in the reliquary arm of Saint Balbine, and in the reliquary bust of Saint Quirin. A crystal chandelier recalls Saint Quirin's glassmaking past.

The only surviving work by Jean-André Silbermann in Lorraine, Saint-Quirin's organ, built in 1746, is the church's principal jewel. Restoration in 2022 by the Guerrier factory has restored the instrument to its full power (thanks in particular to the reconstitution of the bellows), and the renovated balustrade has restored the ensemble to its original appearance. Every year, the Association des amis de l'orgue Silbermann offers concerts of the highest quality. The organ is also listed. Parts of the priory, the church and other objects are protected as Monuments Historiques.