Alsace Region

The region of Alsace is located on the eastern border of France, on the west bank of the Upper Rhine, adjacent to Germany and Switzerland. Its capital and largest city is Strasbourg. The forest area is one of the most industrialized regions. The wine produced in this area has a strong Germanic influence. The region produces some of the world's most noted dry Rieslings. It is the only region in France to produce varietal wines identified by the grapes used.

This region is also the main beer-producing area with breweries in and near Strasbourg. The labels include Kronenbourg, Fischer, and Heineken International. The hops for the beers are grown in Kochersberg and in northern Alsace. Schnapps is also traditionally made in Alsace and the region is known for its fruit juice and mineral water.

The cuisine in this region is strongly influenced by German culinary traditions. It is known for its foie gras and sauerkraut.

There are a number of picturesque villages, churches, and castles. It is famous for its vineyards, green forests, and picturesque lakes.

Colmar is known as the driest town in France. The city has well-preserved houses in German Gothic and early Renaissance style as well as a number of old churches.

Located in central Alsace near the Alsace wine route is Selestat. Its architecture is varied. The Humanist Library has one of the oldest collections of medieval manuscripts and Renaissance books in Europe.

Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region. Its historic center, the Grand Island, is a World Heritage site. The city is located in the Rhine Valley east of the Vosges Mountains and west of the Black Forest. The city has medieval buildings of Rhineland black and white timbered buildings. It is known for its sandstone Gothic Cathedral which has an astronomical clock. There are a number of parks and museums in the city.

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