Strasbourg: Village on an Island

Interior of the "Old" St. Peter's Church, Strasbourg 

 I went east from Paris to the picturesque village/city of Strasbourg.  Located in the Alsace region of France, it has a unique history as it has gone back and forth between France and Germany through the ages.  Such a history is prevalent in its buildings, cuisine and even street signs that are written in both languages.   One of the priests I went to school with, Father Marc, is from that region and I always thought of him as more German than French.

Night View of the Cathedral of Our Lady, Strasbourg. 

Rather unique is the representation of several religious groups with a shared history of co-existence.  In most other places the practice was “winner takes all.”  Such a practice would move Catholics out of their cathedrals and burn down Protestant churches forcing mass “conversions.”  Because of its tolerance through time Strasbourg has several beautiful churches.

Mansion on the river, Strasbourg.

I thought Strasbourg’s greatest beauty, though, was its geography.  The Old City is on an island created by the Ill River.  The river as it circles the historic Centre Ville almost gives the impression that it is canals from Amsterdam or Bruges.  It makes for some wonderful vistas.

Water Jet (with Rainbow) on the Ill River, Strasbourg.

Strasbourg is also a big tourist destination because of its shared cultural make up and sheer beauty.  While I was there in the height of European Holiday Season it was packed.  While I am not a fan of crowds, it was great to see how many families were on holiday.  That is always refreshing.

Creative Extension/Vestibule to the Strasbourg Train-station.