Strasbourg is situated in the heart of the Alsace region in France. The city is a popular destination for its picturesque canals, half-timbered houses and remarkable medieval architecture. With the monumental highlights to visit in Strasbourg I will guide you through some of the most iconic and essential monuments in Strasbourg.
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A brief history of Strasbourg
Strasbourg is founded in 12 BC as the Roman military outpost of Argentoratum. The city developed into a significant trading centre. It was benefiting from its strategic location along the Ill River. During the 5th century the city became part of the Frankish Empire and was a significant religious centre in the Middle Ages. In the 17th and 18th centuries Strasbourg came under French rule. It was a period marked by economic growth and cultural progression. The city was known as an education centre with the establishment of the university in 1621. The impact of World War II was intense. Strasbourg suffered extensive damage from the bombings. But the city has been restored to its former glory. You can explore the charming Old Town. This part is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of the cities well-preserved medieval architecture.
Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
The Cathedral Notre Dame was commissioned in 1015 and it took over four centuries to build. It resulted in a unique mix of various architectural styles. The cathedral was initially constructed in the Romanesque style. The cathedral underwent numerous expansions and renovations. Because of these adjustments Gothic elements were added during the 13th century. This development gave it the iconic features. Including the rose window, stone carvings and tall spires that are visible from considerable distances.
A prominent aspect of the Cathedral Notre-Dame is the astronomical clock inside. The clock dates back to the 16th century. This unique timepiece does not only indicates the time but also illustrates the movements of the sun, moon, and stars. This sophisticated mechanism has been carefully preserved over the centuries and is still operational today. Next to its architectural splendour, the cathedral has been the place for important historical events. During the French Revolution, it was repurposed as a Temple of Reason and later it served as a storage facility for weapons during World War II. Luckily the cathedral had minimal damage during both conflicts.
If you prefer a different view you can admire this Gothic masterpiece by climbing the tower. From this vantage point, you can enjoy panoramic views of Strasbourg. And on a clear day, even look at France and Germany.
Place du Chateau
The history of Place du Chateau goes back to the Roman Empire. It was originally constructed as a military fortification. But it became the site of the city’s most iconic landmark, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg. The square was used for markets and public executions in the Middle Ages. Today it’s a busy square surrounded with restaurants, cafes and shops.
The architecture of Place du Château shows a blend of styles from various eras. The Gothic design of the cathedral dominates the skyline. Other structures around the square are built in the traditional Alsatian half-timbered designs. The Palais Rohan was the former residence of the Bishop-Princes of Strasbourg. The palace adds Baroque elegance to the square.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Strasbourg
The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Strasbourg is a great stop for art lovers. This museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts from the medieval period to the 20th century. The museum is located within baroque Palace Rohan. One of the highlights of this museum is its extensive collection of Flemish paintings from the 15th to 18th centuries. These include works by renowned artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Jacob Jordaens and Anthony van Dyck. In addition to the collection of paintings, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Strasbourg also has a remarkable collection of sculptures.
Musée historique de la ville de Strasbourg
The historic museum of Strasbourg is housed in the Renaissance building of the former slaughterhouse (Grande boucherie). It is dedicated to the city’s history from the early Middle Ages to the contemporary period. It shows the political, economic and social history of Strasbourg. The museum has a immense collection of military artifacts, clothing, paintings, drawings, sculptures and various objects starting from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. Only 1,650 of the museum’s 200,000 objects are on display.
The museum has numerous exhibits and collections. Many items are donated by the citizens of Strasbourg and from the wider Alsace region. Among these is a military collection of approximately 160 uniforms and associated documents. Contributions have been made from European institutes in Strasbourg, such as the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights.
Cave historique des Hospices de Strasbourg
The historical cellar of the hospices in Strasbourg is now a wine cellar. The original structure was built between 1393 and 1395 on the grounds of the civil hospital. The fire of 1716 almost destroyed the hospital. The cellar, bakery and chapel were spared. Throughout the 20th century the production of wine declined. But in 1995 the cellar restarted it’s operations as a cooperative, inspired by Alsatian winemakers. They now produce around 150,000 bottles per year. Here they produce Gewurztraminer, Muscat, Riesling, and Pinot Gris. The cellars are known for the quality of its wines. They don’t advertise their products and instead reinvest all profits into the acquisition of medical equipment.
Musée alsacien
The Musée alsacien in Strasbourg is a charming and picturesque museum. The museum displays the history, culture and traditional architecture of Alsace. The origins of the Musée alsacien date back to 1902 when it was established by historian and archaeologist Arthur Martin. He was passionate about preserving and showing Alsace’s cultural identity formed by its position on the border of France and Germany.
The museum began as a collection of artifacts gathered by Martin himself. But as he expanded it became one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Alsatian artifacts. In an atmosphere that is both familiar and intriguing, you can explore authentic or idealized reconstructions of a Stùb (living room), a kitchen or an apothecary’s shop. The museum is spread across three buildings. They display the artifacts of daily life and unexpected objects from both the past and present are revealed.
Place Benjamin Zix
Place Benjamin Zix is a charming and historic square in Strasbourg. If you are planning to visit Strasbourg you have probably seen pictures of Place Benjamin Zix and Little France. These places are the most iconic and well known among visitors. The square is named after the renowned French painter and engraver Benjamin Zix. This square is renowned for the Alsatian architecture.
La Petite France
La Petite France is a neighbourhood celebrated for its picturesque half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets and canals. This area dates back to the Middle Ages. In the 16th century La Petite France was a centre for tanners, millers and fishermen who worked along the river Ill. The name “Petite France” comes from the “hospice of the syphilitic.” A hospice was established in this region in the late 15th century to treat soldiers suffering with syphilis.
In the 19th century the city renovated La Petite France. The neighbourhood was transformed into a popular tourist destination while preserving it’s medieval charm. Many original buildings are still intact despite conflicts and wars. One of the most distinctive aspects of La Petite France is it’s unique architecture. The houses have wooden frams filled with clay or mud. This style was common in the Middle Ages and is distinct for the neighbourhood.
Place Kléber
The largest square of Strasbourg is Place Kléber. It’s named after the French revolutionary general Jean-Baptiste Kléber. He was born in the city in 1753. A statue of Kléber stands in the square, above a vault that has his remains. Over the centuries the square had several names. During the German occupation from 1940 to 1944, the square was renamed to honour Karl Roos. He was a local German politician who was executed by French authorities in 1940 on charges of espionage for Germany.
Palais de Rhin
The Palais de Rhin is constructed between 1884 and 1889 as a residence for German Emperor Wilhelm II. The Palais de Rhin was designed by architects Hermann Eggert and Skjold Neckelmann. It has a blend of Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque styles. Its exterior is characterized by sculptures, columns and arched windows.
During World War I the palace was damaged and was repurposed as a hospital. Following the war it became a symbol of French-German reunion. The palace was used as headquarters for the Central Commission for Navigation on the Rhine. It hosted several important events, including the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919.
Jardin de la Place de la République
The Place de la République is surrounded on three sides by five prominent buildings. The Palais du Rhin, the National and University Library, the Théâtre national de Strasbourg, the Préfecture of Grand Est and Bas-Rhin, and the tax center known as Hôtel des impôts. All these structures are classified as historic monuments.
This square has four sides of equal length and a circular public garden. The garden is crossed by north-west and south-east axes. Originally this area was part of the city walls, which were removed following the Franco-Prussian War. An ancient Jewish cemetery was situated nearby along the river. It’s believed to be the site where the Jews of Strasbourg were tragically burned at the stake in 1349.
Go for walk around the river and canals
A stroll along the river and canals of Strasbourg will give you breathtaking views. The walk will guarantee a few stunning pictures. The city’s blend of French and German influences is reflected in its architecture. A key attraction during your walk is the Ponts Couverts, or “Covered Bridges.” They were historically part of the city’s fortified walls. Now they are a fascinating sight to admire during your walk around the historic centre.
Monumental highlights in France
Are you prepared for an adventure in France? Get ready to explore four amazing city such as Paris, Metz, Dijon and Marseille. Each city presents its own unique charm and cultural experiences. In Paris you can admire the iconic Eiffel Tower and visit renowned museums such as the Louvre. Enjoy a scenic train ride to Metz where you will discover Gothic architecture or go for walk along the Moselle river. Go south and visit Dijon. The city is famous for its mustard and picturesque Old Town.
