When I think about Strasbourg, a blend of energy and good mood comes to my mind. In spite of its lively atmosphere, this city makes you experience a unique soothing vibe.
The variety of beautiful buildings and monuments, lovely bridges and canals, imposing European institutions, interesting museums and wonderful landscapes makes Strasbourg a really fascinating city. There are a lot of things that you can experience in Strasbourg, but in my opinion just a few of them perfectly describe the essence of this city. I am talking about Barrage Vauban, Grande Ile and La Petite France. These are the wonderful places that really impressed me with their beauty and authenticity.
1.Barrage Vauban is a lovely atypical bridge situated very close to the center of the city. Unlike other bridges, Barrage Vauban looks like an enclosed corridor which hosts a collection of interesting statues. You can visit the interior of the bridge or you can choose to go for a walk on its roof.
This place is really appreciated by the tourists because it offers a beautiful view over the other medieval covered bridges in the area, called Ponts Couverts. I can assure you that this is indeed a breathtaking panorama.
2.Surrounded by the River Ill, Grande Ile is an area linked to the rest of the city by 20 beautiful bridges. The Big Island, as it is called, actually represents the historical center of Strasbourg. Once you get to this charming area you will be delighted by beautiful cobbled streets, lovely bridges, colorful half- timbered houses, ancient churches and monuments.
The beautiful Gutenberg Square, the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral and the interesting Maison Kammerzell are among my favorite places there. Situated in the central part of the island, Gutenberg Square is a lively square from where you can admire the amazing Notre-Dame Cathedral in all its splendor.
This cathedral is built in a Gothic style and it has an impressive exterior design. Embellished with a lovely tower and marvelous spires, the facade of Notre-Dame Cathedral seems to be made of a fine lace. It is said that this cathedral is a symbol of beauty that inspired a lot of famous people.
In this regard, a perfect example could be Victor Hugo who considered Notre-Dame Cathedral “a gigantic and delicate marvel”.
Maison Kammerzell, another lovely attraction, is famous for its interesting exterior design with lovely ornaments and leaded windows.
3.Defined by a special Alsatian charm, La Petite France is a lovely neighborhood that seems to be cut out from a fairy tale. Situated at the western end of Grande Ile, between the canals of the River Ill, La Petite France displays narrow cobblestones streets with picturesque buildings and the famous “maisons a colombages’’or the half-timbered houses.
These are fascinating buildings built in an ingenious way, using the half-timbering method. The houses have a wooden structure with both internal and external walls built on timber frames which make them really special. This is the reason why La Petite France is considered to be Strasbourg’s main tourist attraction.
Strasbourg is definitely a captivating city and I am sure you will share my opinion in case you choose to visit it.
