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Seat of the European Parliament...
The cosmopolitan, north-eastern city of Strasbourg is the
intellectual, cultural and economic capital of Alsace. Stylish
and atmospheric, it is the seat of the Council of Europe and the
European Parliament. Situated just west of the Rhine, Strasbourg
lies at the heart of the vital transport arteries that have linked
northern and Central Europe with the Mediterranean since Roman times.
The Grande Ile is the hub of both ancient
and modern-day Strasbourg. Boasting lively public squares and upmarket
shopping streets, it’s a great place to while away an afternoon. Head
for the Petite France area southwest of the Grand Ile with its beautifully
preserved half-timbered houses and riverside parks for a true glimpse of
Alsatian atmosphere and charm. The magnificent Cathedrale Notre Dame looms
over the town, its pink sandstone glowing. Dating back to 1176, it offers
a breathtaking view over the city. Its spectacular stained glass windows
alone make it worth a visit. Don’t miss the Musee de l’Oeuvre Notre-Dame
either. The city’s finest museum, it has a stunning collection of Romanesque,
Gothic and Renaissance sculpture in both stone and wood. The new Musee d’Art
Moderne et Contemporain houses a fine collection of paintings and sculpture
from the impressionists to the present including works by Monet, Manet and
Chagall. The Palais d’Europe, home of the European Parliament, lies 2km
north-east of the cathedral and is open to the public for one-hour tours
each weekday.
...Intellectual, cultural & economic capital
of Alsace
What makes visiting Strasbourg a real pleasure is its low volume of car
traffic. It has the most modern tramway system in Europe as well as being
the most bicycle-friendly city in France with a 300 kilometre network of
cycling paths. What better way to see the city and get fit after
over-indulging in Alsatian specialities? With Alsace boasting the
largest collection of star-rated gastronomical restaurants in France,
there’s no doubt you’ll be eating and drinking well!
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