WELCOME TO ALSACE WELCOME TO STRASBOURG With its monumental cathedral featuring carvings as delicate as any piece of lacework, Strasbourg is one of Europe’s most attractive cities. Thanks to the richness and sheer density of its heritage sites, the entire town centre has been listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Strasbourg is definitely well worth a visit, to discover its history, its cuisine and its unique atmosphere.
The cathedral of Notre-Dame, a masterpiece of Gothic art
Strasbourg cathedral is an outstanding masterpiece of Gothic art. The first stone was laid in 1015 and the spire was completed in 1439. Described as "a skilful combination of monumental size and delicateness" by Victor Hugo, its facade offers a fantastic wealth of ornamental features. The 142 m spire is a masterpiece of architectural elegance and intricacy. Up until the 19th century, the cathedral was the highest building in the whole of the Christian world.
The Petite France quarter: "The district on the waters"
This is the most picturesque district of old Strasbourg. Fishermen, millers and tanners once lived and worked in this part of town where the streets have been built level with the waterways. The magnificent half-timbered houses date from the 16th and 17th centuries. Their sloping roofs open out onto lofts where hides were once dried.
Strasbourg : European capital
New York, Geneva and Strasbourg are the only cities in the world which are home to international institutions without being national capitals. The choice of Strasbourg as the European capital following the Second World War is no accident. The city stands as a shining symbol of reconciliation between peoples and of the future of Europe. Discovering Europe’s institutions is also a great opportunity to admire some marvellous examples of contemporary architecture.
Picture credit and more information on: http://www.otstrasbourg.fr/?lang=en http://www.vinsalsace.com/index.php?lang=en#SlideFrame_1
Gastronomy
In Alsace, cooking is more than just an art of living, it is a vibrant and living culture backed up by centuries of tradition, yet constantly experimenting and innovating, driven on by the talent of the great chefs and the dynamism of the city’s restaurant owners. Traditional Alsatian specialities such as sauerkraut, baeckeoffe, flambé tart, spaetzle and foie gras can be best enjoyed in the "winstubs", local Alsatian taverns known for their friendly atmosphere. Strasbourg is renowned for its hundreds of restaurants and brasseries offering the latest culinary trends and dishes from all around the world. The Alsatian brewers formed their guild back in 1268! Their passion for beer hasn’t diminished one bit ever since. More than half of all beer consumed in France is produced in Alsace. Alsace is a major wine producing region. Its "Appelations d’Origine Contrôlée" are named after their grape variety and there are 7 in all: Gewurztraminer, Muscat, Pinot blanc, Tokay Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Riesling and Sylvaner. Appreciated the world over, these light and fruity great white wines can be enjoyed as an aperitif or form a marvellous accompaniment for sauerkraut or fish dishes.
Around Strasbourg
What takes your fancy? Castles... cycling trips... an excellent restaurant? Or perhaps a visit to the Motor Museum? There’s so much to see and do in the region, using Strasbourg as your base. Dis-cover the vineyards, lakes and mountains, or visit the region’s towns or villages. On both sides of the River Rhine you’ll find a huge diversity of fascinating landscapes. The Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park is listed as a World Biosphere Reserve. The Wine Route weaves its way through 170 km of vineyards and wine producing areas. The Romanesque Route takes in some of Alsace’s finest examples of Romanesque art.
