Straatsburg

Straatsburg, known in French as Strasbourg and in Dutch as Straatsburg, is a city in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, near the border with Germany. It sits on the Ill river, at the crossroads of historic trade routes between France and the German-speaking lands. The city blends Alsatian and Flemish influences in its architecture, language, and culture, reflecting centuries of cross-border exchange.

Historically, Straatsburg grew from a Roman settlement into a major medieval center for trade, religion, and learning. It was contested between France and various German powers before being firmly integrated into France in the 17th and 18th centuries, with further changes during the 19th and 20th centuries. Today it is the prefecture of the Bas-Rhin department and hosts several European institutions, including the European Parliament’s official seat, the Council of Europe, and the European Court of Human Rights. This makes the city a symbol of Franco-German cooperation and European integration.

The historic core, Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features the Strasbourg Cathedral, a landmark of Gothic architecture and astronomical clock. The La Petite-France district preserves half-timbered houses and narrow canals, illustrating the city’s medieval character. Beyond the historic center, the city hosts a university, research centers, and a growing high-tech economy, particularly in biotech and materials science.

Transport links include the high-speed Paris–Strasbourg corridor, an extensive tram network, Strasbourg Airport, and river and rail connections that connect the city with regional and international destinations.