March 09: Strasbourg
 A birds-eye view of Strasbourg |
 Old world charm and grace abounds |
 Towers of..? Don't remember! |
Old-city tour! The traditional capital of the province of Alsace, Strasbourg was a German city for significant portions of its history. Strasbourg is home to over sixteen European institutions such as the European Parliament, the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights. At the center of the old city lies the Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame, (12th century), the Chateau des Rohans (18th century), a former palace and the University of Strasbourg (founded in 1538). This ancient city offers a wealth of gracious architecture of which highlights are the Cathedral and the Petite France area.
 Timbered buildings are everywhere |
 Delicious pastries and sweets |
 Evening lights in heart of the city |
Park your car and walk through the old city. Stop at the fine shops and tasty restaurants.
Famous for food! Strasbourg has award winning gastronomy: Foie Gras, wines of Alsace, chocolates, and Eaux de vie are appreciated by gourmets from all nationalities. The local winstub's offer excellent regional specialities and there are several star-rated gastronomical restaurants to choose from.
German & French! Strasbourg was originally a Celtic village and later a Roman fortification called Argentoratum. The Franks, who captured it in the 5th century, called it Strateburgum. In the 13th century it became a free imperial city in the Holy Roman Empire. Louis XIV of France seized Strasbourg in 1681. The city was renowned in the mid-18th century for its fine porcelain and earthenware, and during the French Revolution the French national anthem, "La Marseillaise" was composed there (1792) by Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle. After the Franco-Prussian War (1870-71) Strasbourg was ceded to Germany. The city, returned to France in 1919, was again controlled by the Germans during World War II. It has had a vulnerable location in the wars between France and Germany and was damaged considerably during World War II.