The birth town of Pope Leo IX who was crowned in 1049, Eguisheim enjoys international renown. With its fortifications dating from 1257, the village is proud of its picturesque concentric lanes winding between flowery, half-timbered houses. Sometimes surprisingly narrow, these houses are swarming with decorations and unique architectural features. The town's exceptional heritage includes sixteen tithe houses (where royalties were paid), a castle, fountains - of which Saint Leo's is one of the biggest in Alsace - a parish church dedicated to Saint Peter and Saint Paul. The birthplace of Alsatian winemaking, Eguisheim rests on gentle hills planted with vines. Thanks to the know-how of winemakers and remarkable soil, the hillsides of "Eichberg" and "Pfersigberg" have been classed among the great wines of Alsace.