The Quatelbach

The Quatelbach is an artificial river, diverted from the Ill at the exit of Mulhouse, near the current Nouveau Bassin. Its construction dates back to around the year 1100, aimed at supplying water to the villages and mills of Modenheim, Sausheim, Baldersheim, Battenheim, and Aldosheim. After passing through these localities, it rejoins the Ill again at Ensisheim.

In 1699, the Vauban canal extended this watercourse to serve the fortifications of Neuf-Brisach. The name Quatelbach likely originates from Catherine of Burgundy, nicknamed Katel in German, wife of the Duke of Austria from the House of Habsburg.

She contributed to improving the river's layout in 1401.