Strasbourg, France is the story of what Western Europe was and how it is possible to evolve into its best self. Strasbourg is the future of Europe. Yes, the Romans came through and left their mark. Yes, it experienced the upheaval of war, revolutions, and religious reformation. Yes, it even had its fair share of dignitaries from John Calvin to Albert Schweitzer. But instead of turning into a tourist attraction based on its past, Strasbourg became a city where the trajectory of Europe's future is decided. Strasbourg is one of three cities where the EU Parliament meets. To that end, Strasbourg's most notable structure of late is the Louise Weiss building. Named after a French suffragette who later won a seat in the French Parliament, the building appears to be incomplete as massive steel beams reach towards the sky. This, says the builder, is a tribute to the "Unfinished nature of Europe." Weiss was an advocate for European unity, and Strasbourg is arguably a living model for her vision. Citizens of the EU vote in Parliament's members, and those elected officials are responsible for the legislative function and budgetary control of the Union's member countries.
The city is also famous for a second Notre Dame. But unlike its predecessor, Strasbourg's cathedral is an example of Romanesque AND Gothic architecture. We happened to be there on Easter Sunday, and although we could not go inside, we were able to experience the magic of Our Lady's bells ringing out the good news Christ has risen. High on the bells and beauty of the cathedral we meandered through the streets running parallel to the Ill River. The photos we took barely scrape the surface of this picturesque city.
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