Alsace

The Grande Mosquée de Strasbourg was inaugurated in September 2012 and is one of France's largest mosques. Designed by Italian architect Paolo Portoghesi, its striking feature is the large dome; there is no minaret. The prayer hall accommodates around 1200 worshippers. Located on the banks of the Ill, the mosque is also a place for encounter and education.Practical tip: Visit the mosque outside of prayer times and wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees; women should bring a headscarf. Weekday mornings are the quietest.

The Protestant Church of Saint-Pierre-le-Jeune in Strasbourg unites architectural elements from many centuries. Below it lies a small crypt, the remnant of a 7th-century church. Three wings of the cloister date from the 11th century, the fourth from the 14th. The Gothic nave from the 14th century is adorned with numerous murals from that period and a rood screen, which is considered unique in Alsace. The church has been Protestant since 1524. The organ by Jean André Silbermann dates from 1780.Our Tip: It's quiet here in the early morning or late afternoon; take your time for the cloister.

The Museum Œuvre Notre-Dame in Strasbourg is inextricably linked to the history and construction of Strasbourg Cathedral. It preserves original artworks that once adorned the Cathedral and document the development of Gothic art in Alsace. Here you'll find an impressive collection of sculptures, stained-glass windows, building plans, and architectural fragments, spanning from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Particularly noteworthy are original statues such as the famous figures of „Ecclesia“ and „Synagoga“, which were removed from the Cathedral for protection against weathering and are exhibited here. The museum offers a deep insight into medieval architecture, the working methods of the 'Bauhütte' (cathedral workshop), and the continuous maintenance of the Cathedral over centuries. Our Tip: Ideally, visit the museum directly after the Cathedral to better understand the exhibits in the context of their original placement. For a peaceful experience and the opportunity to thoroughly examine the artworks' details, a morning visit is recommended.

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and has shaped the city's skyline for centuries. Its construction began in 1176 and was only completed in 1439, combining elements of Romanesque and Gothic styles. From 1647 to 1874, it was the tallest building in the world. You will be captivated by its intricate facade with countless sculptures and the impressive rose window. Inside, magnificent stained-glass windows from the 12th to 14th centuries await you, along with the famous astronomical clock, whose figures come to life daily at 12:30 PM. A climb up 332 steps to the viewing platform offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Strasbourg and the Rhine Plain. Our Tip: It's best to visit the cathedral early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and special light, and to avoid the crowds. Allow ample time for the astronomical clock and be there by 12:00 PM at the latest to secure a good spot.

The Alsace Wine Route, one of France's oldest and most famous wine routes, stretches over 170 kilometres from Marlenheim in the north to Thann in the south. You'll traverse a picturesque landscape of gentle, vine-covered hills and discover over a hundred charming wine villages. These villages, often with medieval centres and colourful half-timbered houses, such as Riquewihr, Eguisheim, or Kaysersberg, invite you to linger.The region has been shaped by viticulture for centuries, reflected in its architecture and local traditions. Its unique geographical location between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine creates a special microclimate that favours the cultivation of grape varieties like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Plan several days for a comprehensive exploration to enjoy the diversity of its wineries and local gastronomy. Our tip: Visit the Wine Route in spring, when the vines bud, or in autumn for the grape harvest, to experience the lively atmosphere and colourful landscape. To avoid the largest tourist crowds, focus on the smaller, lesser-known villages off the main routes or start your visits early in the morning.

The Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg stands majestically on a rocky spur in the Vosges Mountains, offering an impressive insight into the medieval fortress architecture of Alsace. Its history dates back to the 12th century, but it owes its current appearance to an extensive restoration under Emperor Wilhelm II at the beginning of the 20th century. This reconstruction, led by Bodo Ebhardt, aimed to create an idealized image of a medieval castle, making the Château a unique testament to imperial historical interpretation.During your visit, you'll explore well-preserved courtyards, living quarters, the keep, and the imposing defensive walls. From the upper platforms, you'll enjoy a sweeping panoramic view over the Rhine Plain, the Vosges Mountains, and on a clear day, even as far as the Black Forest. The blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements, as well as the detailed furnishings, convey a vivid picture of life in a medieval castle. Our Tip: To avoid peak crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the site, it's best to visit the Château early in the morning right after opening or in the late afternoon. For the best photos of the castle in its full splendor, a vantage point from the access road is recommended.