We had originally planned to visit Strasbourg during December, when it hosts one of the oldest Christmas Markets in Europe (first held in 1570). Unfortunately, I got sick the night before, and we had to reschedule our trip. There are plenty of Christmas Markets in Europe, so we did get to experience them in other cities, including the enormous Paris market along the Champs-Élysées. Our January visit to Strasbourg was fun – but boy, was it COLD! The temperature was below freezing the entire time we were there, plus it snowed. I would love to re-visit the city in warmer temperatures, to see the lovely buildings when their flower boxes are blooming.
First, a little background info: Strasbourg, France is located in the Alsace Region near the German border. It has a rich history, punctuated over the centuries by periods of rule alternating between France and Germany. It is the official seat of the European Parliament, and home to France’s 2nd largest university, the University of Strasbourg (founded in 1538).
Le Grand Île and Petite France
Built in the 1890s, the Gothic Revival Église Réformée Saint-Paul is a major landmark in Strasbourg. Lutheran members of the Imperial German Garrison who were stationed in Strasbourg attended this church.
The historic city center, Le Grand Île, is the only city center that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its half-timbered buildings and towering Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Strasbourg, the island, created by a canal fed by the Rhine, is stunning.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg is a fine example of late Gothic architecture. There have been religious buildings on this site since Roman times, but this cathedral was built between 1176 – 1439. Writer Victor Hugo described it as “a gigantic and delicate marvel.” Built of sandstone from the Vosges mountains, it has a distinct pink color. Click this link to see and hear the cathedral’s bells ring:
Quartier Allemand
The Quartier Allemand (German District) houses the Place de la République and the elegant, domed Palais du Rhin, a former German Imperial palace.
Many times over the centuries, Germany and France have fought each other to rule the Alsace area which includes Strasbourg. This poignant statue pays homage to the loss of lives on both sides, often from the same family. Here, a mother grieves over two lost sons – one who fought for Germany and one for France.
Quartier Européen
The seat of the European Parliament is located in a more modern part of the city, called the Quartier Européen. Some parliamentary meetings are also held in Brussels, Belgium and Luxemboug City, but most meetings (12 sessions/year) are held here, and voting must take place in Strasbourg. We took the tram out to see this part of town, a short distance from the old city center.
We had fun watching the kids sledding by the European Parliament! Click this link to watch, too:
