Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Over the border to France

Our new location gives us access to a lot of fun and exciting places! Our last adventure was to Strasbourg France, a historical city just across the Rhine River which separates France from Germany. It's amazing that on one side of the river the people speak German and only a few meters away the language completely changes to French!

Driving in Europe is not quite what we expected. It is nothing like driving over to Canada or Mexico from the US, but rather its more like driving from New York to Pennsylvania. There doesn't seem to be any border checks...just a sign saying "Goodbye" and another one saying "Welcome"!

Strasbourg's city center is situated on an "island" surrounded by a tributary river of the Rhine. Much of the downtown consists of cobblestone walking streets, with bridges and watch towers crossing the river every 0.5 km.





The main attraction of this town is the Cathedral Notre-Dame. It is quite an impressive structure, with construction starting in the 11oo's, and was the tallest structure in the world from 1647 up until 1874. The Gothic influence can be seen in great detail on the outside of this enormous church.






Brian and a clock on the church.



The inside of the church is just as impressive, but in contrast is completely opposite the outside Gothic detail. The architecture, angel statues, and stained glass were amazing.




Here is the door and stairway up to the Pulpit.

The massive and ornate organ.


The church has several impressive features including the Pillar of Angels.


There is also an astronomical clock located inside the church. Everyday but Sunday (and holidays) at 12:31pm the clock has figurines that come out and move and perform a creepy little show. Just our luck we visited on a Sunday and didn't get to see the show, but the clock was still impressive. Check out our cool new camera and it's super slick panoramic setting!




And of course it wouldn't be France if there wasn't yummy wine to sample!

Of course there are other refreshments to enjoy as well. Poor Brian is pouting because his beer is empty.


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