Strasbourg – Where history, Europe and culture meet
Strasbourg (French: Strasbourg) is the capital of the region Grand Est in the east of France and is located directly on the border with Germany on the Rhine. The city is a place with a unique character: a melting pot of German and French culture, a place with deep historical roots and an important center for Politics, science and art – not only in France, but throughout Europe.
Historical development of Strasbourg
The origins of Strasbourg date back to Roman times. Argentoratum The city was already a military outpost on the Rhine in the 1st century AD. In the Middle Ages, Strasbourg became an important trading center, primarily thanks to its location at the crossroads of European transport routes.
In the year 1262 Strasbourg became a Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire. After centuries of alternating affiliation between France and Germany, it was annexed by France in 1681, returned to Germany in 1871 after the Franco-Prussian War, and became French again in 1918.
This eventful history has had a profound impact on the city culturally and architecturally – which is still evident today in the bilingual identity, reflected in the architectural style and in everyday life.
Sights and highlights in Strasbourg - Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame): The city's landmark and one of the most impressive Gothic buildings in Europe. The astronomical clock and the observation tower with views over the city are special highlights.
- Little France: The historic tanners' quarter with half-timbered houses, canals and cobblestones – a picturesque district that clearly shows Strasbourg's charm.
- European Parliament & Council of Europe: Strasbourg is the seat of important European institutions – a symbol of peace and cooperation in Europe.
- Palais Rohan: Baroque city palace with three museums – for archaeology, art and decorative arts.
- New Town: The Wilhelminian district with wide boulevards and impressive architecture has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the old town since 2017.
- Boat tour on the Ill: A popular way to explore Strasbourg's old town and modern districts from the water.
Strasbourg today – European city with quality of life
With around 290,000 inhabitants (over 500,000 in the metropolitan area), Strasbourg is one of the largest cities in eastern France – and at the same time one of the most important European metropolises.
Strasbourg is:
- Headquarters of the European Parliament, of the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights
- One of the most bicycle-friendly cities in France with a dense network of cycle paths
- A center for Science and research, including the renowned University of Strasbourg
- A vibrant cultural city with numerous theaters, festivals, concerts and art exhibitions
- Home of the famous Strasbourg Christmas market (Christkindelsmärik), one of the oldest and largest in Europe
