First published: 27/04/10.

Els Slots 3.0

Strasbourg

Strasbourg (Inscribed)

Strasbourg by Els Slots

The imposing structure of the Strasbourg Cathedral can best be admired from afar. Already kilometers before entering the old town by car, the cathedral’s spire dominates the skyline. What a sight this must have been during the Middle Ages when the area wasn’t as built up as it is now. It has inspired Cologne Cathedral – and indeed they look alike apart from the exterior colour.

This was my second visit to Strasbourg. I had visited it before in 1981 with my parents. I had ‘counted’ that as a WHS visit but always felt a bit bad about this because I had no memories of it at all. Now, over Easter, I stayed in Strasbourg for two nights on a proper visit. I found a town very popular with German tourists. Also, the Asian tour groups know how to find it. There are plenty of restaurants too and it’s all quite touristy.

On Easter morning I started with a walk along the River Ill. There are cheesy boat trips on offer here, like in Amsterdam or Paris. I continued on foot to the bulky St. Thomas Church, dating from 1196. From there a footpath starts into the Petite France neighbourhood. This is the main tourist area with pretty Fachwerk houses and streets named after the guilds.

Then it was on to Palais Rohan. A pretty 18th-century palace that houses three museums. The entrance was free today, and I choose the Museum of Beaux Arts. It has numerous paintings by well-known Italian and North European painters from the 15-18th century. One has to be a real art enthusiast to enjoy this room after room.

Finally, I entered the Cathedral. Mass was going on so I couldn't go around much. What attracts the eye immediately are the huge and pretty organ and the various stained glass windows.

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