Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a city located in northeastern France, situated along the banks of the Ill River. Its proximity to Germany means that the city bears some heavy German influences. It is a city known not only for its industries but also for its rich heritage and unique history.

Sights & Activities

Grande Île, the city’s historic center, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in recognition of its Franco-Germanic culture that paved the way for unity and cooperation between the two countries.

The area’s most striking landmark is the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg or the Strasbourg Cathedral. Construction for this Roman Catholic cathedral began in 1176 though it was only in the 1439 that the structure was completed. It is of Romanesque style and is considered the fourth tallest church in the world. Its western façade is quite impressive, bearing thousands of sculptures. An astronomical clock is also located in the cathedral’s south transept and is the structure’s most famous feature. Every day, starting at 12:30 pm, animated figurines come to life during different hours of the days.

Adjacent to the cathedral is the Maison Kammerzell, an example of a medieval civil housing building that was built in 1427. It is of Gothic architecture and is remarkably well-preserved up to the present day.

After exploring the cathedral and the Maison Kammerzell, visitors should head out to the Palais Rohan, located along the Rue de la Râpe. This Baroque structure was built in the 18th century and is now the location of three important museums of the city—the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Museum of Fine Arts. Visitors can also explore the chambers of the Prince-Archbishop, whose interiors have been lovingly preserved for posterity.

Still yet another interesting destination in the area is the Saint-Thomas Church, situated along the Quai Saint-Thomas. Completed in 1521, this late Gothic structure bears several monuments, some dating as far as the 12th century. There is also a fresco of Saint Michael as well as interesting tombs of important persons in the city’s past.

Situated outside the city’s historic center is the Palais du Rhin, a fine example of 19th century Prussian architecture. It is a striking landmark, with its massive dome and the formal garden fronting it.

Strasbourg is also the location of the Palace of Europe, which is the seat of the Council of Europe. Across it is the European Parliament, the parliamentary body of the European Union that is housed in a modernistic building. Also located nearby is the European Court of Human Rights, another modernistic building mostly constructed out of glass.

Weather

The city’s weather is largely influenced by its location within the Rhine Valley. Summer rarely gets very hot, with temperature averaging just below 30°C. Autumn brings a much lower temperature and frequent rains. Winter is decidedly cold, with snow covering the ground and fog permeating the city. Spring in Strasbourg can be described as crisp, though the temperature gets decidedly warmer in the days approaching June.