Strasbourg-Grande īsle

Strasbourg-Grande īsle
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The Cathedral and the Grande Ile of Strasbourg were added to the World Heritage List, because:
- the Gothic Cathedral of Strasbourg is a
unique artistic achievement;
- the Cathedral of Strasbourg represents the eastward vector of the Gothic art movement.
- the Grande Ile of Strasbourg is an outstanding example of an urban ensemble characteristic of central Europe and a unique ensemble of domestic architecture in the Rhine valley of the 15th and 16th centuries.


Year Decision Comments
1988 Inscribed Reasons for inscription

Reviews

Assif Am-David (Israel):
I would certainly pick Strassburg as one of the most beautiful cities in Central Europe. The historic centre is full of atmosphere. Don't miss Little France (petite France) which is very beautiful despite overt commercialism. The city changed hands several times between France and Germany in the course of history and the architecture reflects these current changes: the medieveil timbered houses are typically Alsacian but certainly more related to such architecture in Germany than in France. Conversly, the Baroque architecture as in Palais Rohan (which houses three museums) is typically French. The Musee d'oevres de Notre-Dame is a must-see, exhibiting beautiful sculptures from the chathedral as well as other medievil sacred art. The building itself is beautiful as well. Nearby Colmar is also highly recommended.
Date posted: April 2008
Jakob Frenzel ():
I was in Strasbourg in 2004.
Although it is crowded with tourists and very expensive it is worth a trip. The cathedral is Beautiful and the framework houses tell a lot about its history
 
Ian Cade (England):
I have to admit perhaps my favourite places to visit are these medium sized European cities, and Strasbourg was definitely well worth a weekend break.
The city centre is on an Island (Grande Isle) and its main assets are two fold, hopefully shown in the photo. Firstly rows of half-timbered houses overlooking cobbled streets/ waterways. Secondly the massive Gothic Cathedral. It was regarded by Goethe as the finest Cathedral in Europe, and its main edifice certainly ranks up there with the best. Inside is a fine astronomical clock, which like every other one I have seen is achingly under whelming to watch in motion on the hour.
The area of Petit France is incredibly picturesque, with the canals being lined with black and white houses, mostly filled with restaurants (some are very good!) now but still a great place to amble around.
We spent most of our time wandering around trying to avoid spending our whole budget in bakeries and sweet shops, there are a lot of them here. Also on a culinary note Strasbourg gets high points in my book for being situated in perhaps my favourite wine region, and I really enjoyed the aromatic white wines on offer. If you do visit try to have at least one glass of Alsatian wine, the main varieties to look out for are Guwurtztraminer (my personal favourite), Muscat and Riesling but there are plenty of others to fit your own palette.
I really enjoyed my weekend in Strasbourg and its continuous development is a great testament to how many European cities have evolved, incorporating many artistic styles and practical uses.
 
Klaus Freisinger (Austria):
Strasbourg is mostly famous for politics, being both the seat of the Council of Europe and of the European Parliament, but the city“s history and culture are at least as noteworthy. Having changed hands between Germany and France several times, Strasbourg still has a distinctly Germanic flavour, and the island-like old town has preserved its medieval core to a remarkable degree. Especially the Cathedral, or Münster, with the statue of Gutenberg outside, is very impressive. It“s really a pity this side of Strasbourg is often overlooked, even by the politicians and journalists who live or travel there.
 
Fanny Melian Havela (Finland):
Excellent Tarte Flambé can be aquired in one tavern/gas station on a motorway from Strasbourg to Karlsruhe.
Oh yes, and the city was nice too.. :-)
 


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