In the mid-1400’s, Strasbourg became one of the first centers in Europe to utilize Gutenberg’s revolutionary printing press. When Louis XIV conquered the Alsace region, it became a French city. Following the Franco-Prussian war (1870), Strasbourg became part of Germany. However, after the end of World War I, it reverted back to French ownership.
Today, Strasbourg is the capital city of the Grand EST region of France (formerly Alsace) and is one of three main capitals of the European Union (along with Brussels and Luxembourg ). It’s chief tourist attraction is the sandstone Gothic Notre Dame cathedral, with its famous astrological clock. The current clock is actually the third one in the church; the first clock, known as the “King’s Clock,” was built between 1352 and 1354. When it stopped working in the mid-1500’s, a second clock was constructed to replace it. This one lasted until 1788, when it also stopped working. Because of funding and political issues at the time, construction of the third (and current) clock was not completed until 1843. It’s main automaton features are 18” figures of Christ and His apostles in procession each day at solar noon, while the clock “crows” three times ( a throw back to the second clock which had an automaton rooster that would flap its wings and crow).
What a wonderful time we had visiting this quaint, old medieval looking village, thanks to our son, David’s, suggestion.