Rhine River Cruise; France, Strasbourg

Strasbourg was founded by the Romans in 12 BC and has always been at a strategic location in Europe, at a meeting point of East-West and North-South communications. The city is also located in the Alsace-Lorraine region of France, a region subject to numerous territorial disputes between France and Germany. The Alsace region was most recently ceded to France in 1945. When visiting, one notes both French and German influences in the languages spoken, the architecture and the culture. The monumental Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame stands out on a stroll through the city. It is the second most visited cathedral in France, second only to the Notre Dame in Paris. It is not the only building of architectural interest, however. Strasbourg's entire town centre, the "Grand Isle", has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage of Humanity site due to its architectural heritage. It is rare for an entire town centre to receive such an honor.