Naturally, the Rhine River courses through numerous European countries – Switzerland, France, Germany, the Netherlands. Each country has its own culture and language, but all are tied together by the river. For example, in this video we examine the city of Strasbourg on the west bank of the upper Rhine. Located in northeastern France, it displays French and German influences, (common to the Alsace cultural region) created in part by proximity to the cultural, economic, and transportation opportunities of the Rhine.
Because of the “cross-pollination” effect of the Rhine. townships on its route through Europe possess many similarities, as in building styles (i.e. half-timbered buildings,) town squares, and strikingly, grand cathedrals. One of the most beautiful examples in the world is the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg, (pictured herein.) With its old town heritage, renowned university, and place as one of three capitol cities of the European Union, Strasbourg plays a central part of Europe.
You can find many communities on the Rhine that share cross-references of different cultures like Strasbourg. So, let’s go!