![\"Strasbourg](\"http:\/\/www.anfocal.ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/Strasbourg-Picture-570x425.jpg\")
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IN SPITE of its apparent unity, Europe proves to be quite a controversial continent in terms of travel. Major political disputes and differences may continue to appear among our neighbour nations, but European travel has to be one of the more common topics
\nthat still divide opinion.<\/p>\n
Even now, voyaging in Europe comes down to an inevitable argument. You could prefer the \u201cpretty\u201d, \u201cromantic\u201d and warm side of the continent, championed by France, Spain and Italy. Failing that, you could choose the \u201cordered\u201d, \u201cprosperous\u201d and \u201cmodern\u201d
\ndestinations of Northern Europe, namely Germany and Scandinavia. The contrast between these two ideas of our continent couldn\u2019t be starker. In response, many travelers \u2013me included- have aligned themselves with one particular vision of Europe.<\/p>\n
As a teenager, I had decided that France would be my future home. For me, there was no better place in the world. That decision was absolute at the time. However, after spending six months in France through co-op and Erasmus, I was no longer quite so
\nzealous. I still loved the lifestyle of cycling, buying baguettes and drinking wine in caf\u00e9s, but I was growing ever more curious about what lay to the north and east of France\u2019s borders. This curiosity resulted in an impromptu trip to Strasbourg, in the French
\nregion of Alsace. Accompanied by another curious Irish friend, I wanted to see this city before venturing further to Germany.<\/p>\n
Amidst our ideas of what defines France and Germany, Strasbourg seems to be some sort of bizarre hybrid. The Germans and the French both fought for control of the city for centuries, eventually resulting in a culture that borrowed elements from both worlds.<\/p>\n
Today, Strasbourg seems to be at peace with its dual identity. Its diverse history led to the city becoming the official seat of the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, the European Court of Human Rights and a number of other key institutions.<\/p>\n
The primary reason that many people visit Strasbourg is to see its European district. In fact, visiting the European Parliament buildings was the biggest attraction for my friend and me. On discovering it was closed on the day we arrived there, it was time to find something else. All we knew of Strasbourg was its political importance in Europe. What else could we do there?<\/p>\n
Contrary to what my friend and I first thought, Strasbourg is not wholly reserved for diplomats, activists and politics junkies. In spite of its overseas image of a businesslike, glass-fronted metropolis of industry and international relations, Strasbourg\u2019s city centre is something quite different.<\/p>\n
The centre is somewhat divided up by the River Ill, which creates the islands that make up Strasbourg. One of these quarters, Grande \u00cele, was the first city centre in the world to be classified as a UNESCO heritage site. Once you\u2019re there, it\u2019s easy to see why \u2013 its medieval timber-frame houses, ramshackle roofs and cobbled streets combine the best of both the quaint and the grandiose.<\/p>\n
In the heart of the city centre, you will find Strasbourg\u2019s immense cathedral. The Cathedrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg dominates the cityscape with its Gothic, almost skeletal frame. Religious or not, it\u2019s worth it just to pay a visit and marvel at its massive
\ninterior. The cathedral also houses one of the most beautifully strange artefacts to ever be seen in a church \u2013 the Astronomical Clock. Adorned with clockwork cherubs, skeletons, zodiacal symbols and constellations, it seems to combine the seemingly
\nincompatible worlds of saints and star-signs.<\/p>\n
While visiting the cathedral, be sure to climb the hundreds of steps to its very top for stunning views over Strasbourg\u2019s skyline, from sparkling modern skyscrapers, medieval houses and mountains in the distance.<\/p>\n
When it comes to dining out and nightlife, the city maintains its sense of living in two worlds. Nestled in Strasbourg\u2019s winding streets, hearty German Brauhauser are on an equal par with more delicate French bistros. Both will offer regional specialties such as Flammekueche \u2013 a pizza-like dish with cr\u00e8me fraiche, cheese and bacon. If you\u2019re feeling brave, try the deceptively delicious choucro\u00fbte, sour cabbage served with potatoes, sausages and other meats.<\/p>\n
If dining alfresco is more your thing, a picnic by the banks of the river is not only recommended \u2013 it is obligatory. In spite of its traditional and old-world atmosphere, Strasbourg\u2019s wide array of wine bars and craft beer pubs manage to balance the
\nyouthfulness of the city with its authenticity.<\/p>\n
Strasbourg has always been seen as the common ground between two very different concepts of Europe. It encapsulates elements of art and cuisine that seem very French, and yet preserves the steadfast, earthy nature of German traditions. It is a city that
\nseems both old and young, without having to try too hard. However, it\u2019s not quite right to call Strasbourg a clash of cultures \u2013 it\u2019s far more harmonious than that.<\/p>\n
By\u00a0Jane O\u2019Faherty<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n