Strasbourg - Palais Rohan

Strasbourg, a culturally mixed French town, is located in the northeast corner of France, in close proximity to Germany. Known as the crossroads of Europe, both for its central location on the continent, and for the variety of official courts that meet there. The European Parliament meets in Strasbourg France 12 days a year. Visitors can sit in on debates for one hour, on a first come, first serve basis. (Check the EU website for session dates.) Also, the Court of Human rights meets in Strasbourg France, as well as the European Council. In addition to the official courts, Strasbourg’s most famous building is the Strasbourg Cathedral, started in the 13th century. Strasbourg is undeniably a French town, yet it makes a very unique stop on a French vacation.

Palais Rohan is the former residence of the town’s bishop. The basement holds the archeological museum. On the 1st floor, the Musee de Arts Decoratifs features a look at the lifestyle of the 18th century rich. Above, on the 2nd floor, is the Musee des Beaux-Arts, with a collection of art dating back to the 14th century. Also of note, the modern art museum in Strasbourg France holds a collection of works spanning the major styles of the past century.