LORRAINE

The départements of Alsace and Lorraine lie to the north east of France, and border on Germany. Luxembourg is to the north of Lorraine, and Switzerland to the south of Alsace. Sandwiched between France and Germany, Alsace & Lorraine have changed nationality no less than four times times since 1871.

As a result of these wars, there are many military strongholds and cemeteries, but thankfully the region now presents a much more peaceful landscape of lovely villages, fortified towns and sleepy vineyards. The architecture is very distinctive, with many colombage (half-timbered) buildings lining the streets of villages and towns.

Metz is the capital of the Lorraine region, and is located at the confluence of the Moselle and the Seille rivers. Spanned by 20 bridges, the banks of the city's rivers and canals provide very pleasant walking.

Verdun in Lorraine is the site of one of the most heavily fought battles of the First World War, and the area teems with military cemeteries. The Citadelle de Verdun, although heavily damaged, still retains its 12th century tower. It was a symbol of French resistance, and 400,000 Frenchmen died defending it.

Apart from the military history, much of the attraction in this region lies in its cuisine where, for example, Lorraine offers beer, choucroute, and quiche lorraine…which will be made correctly…and piping hot!

Alsace has a strong identity, and takes pride in its local costumes, traditions and dialects. To the north east of Alsace is Strasbourg, with its beautiful and majestic gothic cathedral, and of course, the European Parliament buildings. Vineyards can be found from north to south on the Route des Vins in the Vosges foothills, and visits to places like Riquewihr and Colmar are a 'must'. In the cellars of the producers, you can taste lovely, and much under rated, flowery wines, usually named after the grapes from which they were made. Although it's not to everyone's taste, try choucrout (sauerkraut) with saucisse de Strasbourg coupled with the local wines in the winstubs (wine cellars). Another regional speciality, which it shares with Lorraine, is flammekueche (tarte flambée).

The symbol of Alsace is the stork, these splendid birds can be seen in their nests on many of the tall houses, churches and other buildings.

As well as providing some very general information, these notes reflect my own impressions following many visits to France. They are, however, no substitute for the very good and interesting books which are available. William Pearson©