Profile of the Month: Sarah Gross – Balancing Tradition and Innovation at the Maison du Kochersberg

2. 2. A return to our roots for the benefit of the local area

Originally from Strasbourg, Sarah Gross spent around fifteen years in Paris before returning to Alsace – and more specifically to the Kochersberg region – three years ago. It was a return that made perfect sense, both personally and professionally.

At the Maison du Kochersberg, she holds a key role: developing and revitalising this iconic venue. It is a mission she carries out with enthusiasm, thanks in particular to what she values most in her daily life: interacting with people in general – visitors, volunteers and tourists.

2. 2. La Maison du Kochersberg, a vibrant and inspiring place

Much more than just a museum, the Maison du Kochersberg is a true centre for cultural transmission. It traces the history of Alsace through immersive displays, traditional costumes and themed exhibitions.

Its role is essential: to promote, preserve and raise awareness of Alsatian heritage, and more specifically that of the Kochersberg.

As Sarah points out: “When a person knows where they come from, they know where they are going.” A philosophy that fully guides the museum’s activities.

What makes this place unique?

“We have an incalculable number of Alsatian headdresses and costumes,” but also a participatory approach with temporary exhibitions devised by volunteers, not to mention a touch of innovation with immersive experiences such as projection mapping.

2. 2. Two exhibitions you simply must see

‘Pariser Tante’: in the footsteps of Alsatian women in Paris

This unique exhibition sheds light on a little-known chapter of Alsatian history: that of the many women who left to work in Paris at the start of the 20th century.

“Eleven thousand Alsatian maids went to Paris […] as Alsatian women were renowned for being clean, hard-working and honest.”

Inspired in particular by the story of Marie-Louise Beck, the future Mrs Ritz from Truchtersheim, the exhibition traces the journey of these “Parisian aunts”.

Visitors are treated to a unique immersive experience:
“An interactive view of the Paris rooftops, a projection mapping […], an old-fashioned Parisian maid’s room ”, as well as a period kitchen and numerous personal accounts.

“From Hops to the Spirit of Beer”: local expertise

Another flagship exhibition: the one dedicated to hops and beer, two elements closely linked to the identity of the Kochersberg.

It traces “The history of hops through the ages [ …] right up to today’s innovative techniques.”

A key theme for the region : “The Kochersberg is a land of hops […] it is here that the main brewers are based.”

2. 2. A place for emotions and sharing

As well as exhibitions, the Maison du Kochersberg also hosts a wide range of events, particularly at weekends, reinforcing its role as a vibrant venue open to all.

Sarah’s favourite thing? Without a doubt: “The building itself […] all the emotion, tradition and memories it evokes.”

2. 2. An invitation to discover or rediscover

For Sarah Gross, the message is simple and heartfelt: “Come and discover, or rediscover, Alsatian traditions through the ages and all the innovations they have inspired.”

An invitation to explore the past to better understand the present… and imagine the future.