Strasbourg means: "town at the crossing of the roads"
With a population of 759,868, Strasbourg ranks as the 9th largest French city. Most residents speak German. You will enjoy the best of French and German cuisine in Strasbourg.
The City Center (Grande Isle) became a World Heritage Site in 1988. (Named by UNESCO)
Strasbourg serves as the seat of the Central Commission for Navigation of the Rhine. It is also the home of the International Institute of Human Rights. It is the official seat of the European Parliament.
Strasbourg has been the bridge of unity between France and Germany. The long-standing University of Strasbourg has allowed the coexistence of Catholic and Protestant cultures through the centuries.
The Port of Strasbourg is the second larger on the Rhine. (The largest port is found at Diusberg, Germany.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURES IN APRIL: High = 60 degrees
Low = 41 degrees
BRIEF HISTORY OF STRASBOURG: The Celts permanently settled Strasbourg in 1300 BC; however, human occupation can be traced back 600,000 years.
Gutenberg created the first moveable press in Strasbourg and the first modern newspaper was published here in 1605.
Marcel Marceau, the actor and mime, was born in Strasbourg.
WORLD WAR II:
September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland.
September 3, 1939, France and England declared war against Germany. Once France and England declared war, the entire city of Strasbourg was evacuated (120,000 residents) and the city stood empty for 10 months. The Wehrmacht arrived to a city devoid of civilians in mid-June 1940.
Allied bombing of the city began in 1943 and Strasbourg was liberated by the Second French Armoured Division on November 23, 1944.
THINGS TO DO IN STRASBOURG: (lots) A few are highlighted in this blog:
The historic city center (World Heritage Site) 'Petite France' 'old town' of Strasbourg - You will enjoy the architecture, quaint cafes, gift shops, and rub elbows with residents and tourists in this vibrant and beautiful area.
Cathedrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg for a couple of hundred years was the tallest building in all of Europe. Built from pink sandstone, an astronomical clock is inside the church. If you want exercise, climb the 332 steps to the top for a spectacular view of the Black Forest and mountains.
Musee Alsacien contains exhibits of life in Strasbourg 1400 through 1900. The visit takes 1 - 2 hours.
Parc de l'Orangerie has a free zoo and mini-farm.
European Parliament where EU summits are held
A unique opportunity: through December 2013 at the Strasbourg Archeological Museum: "News from the Eastern Front! Great War Archeological Finds in Alsace and Lorraine." (costs 6 euros - reduced price 3 euros)
SAMPLE THE FOOD (German and French) and Alsacian wines (mainly white):
Gewurtztraminer, Muscat, Pinot Blanc, Tokay Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Reisling, Sylvaner
Most common beer: Kronenbourg
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