Strasbourg history

The history of Strasbourg is a fascinating chronicle of a city born at the crossroads of European roads and cultures. For two millennia, its destiny has been shaped by the influence of two worlds — the French and the German. This unique fusion is still felt today, as Strasbourg, having journeyed from a Roman outpost to one of the capitals of a united Europe, has preserved its unique charm and rich heritage.

It all began in 12 BC, when the Romans established a military camp here called Argentoratum to protect the borders of their empire. After the fall of Rome and destruction by the Huns, the city was revived by the Franks and received a new name — Stratiburgum, which means "fortress by the road". This name proved prophetic: its location on trade routes determined its future greatness and prosperity.

The Middle Ages became a golden era for Strasbourg. Thanks to its location on the Ill River, which flows into the Rhine, the city turned into an important river port. A key moment in its history was receiving the status of a Free Imperial City in 1262, which granted it significant autonomy and the right to self-governance. This allowed the city to flourish by developing trade and crafts, and the construction of the grand Strasbourg Cathedral became a symbol of its wealth and power.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, Strasbourg transformed into one of Europe's main intellectual centres. It was here that the inventor Johannes Gutenberg spent his decisive years creating the first printing press, making the city the cradle of book printing. Soon, Strasbourg also became a stronghold of the Reformation, attracting scholars and thinkers from across the continent. This spirit of innovation and freedom of thought has remained part of Strasbourg's character forever, turning it into a city where history and modernity harmoniously complement each other.

Key Milestones in the History of Strasbourg

The history of Strasbourg is a kaleidoscope of events reflecting its unique position at the intersection of European cultures. From a Roman outpost to the parliamentary capital of Europe, the city has travelled a long and eventful path, absorbing both French elegance and German thoroughness.

• 12 BC — The Romans establish the military camp Argentoratum on the site of a Celtic settlement, which became the forerunner of modern Strasbourg.
• 842 — The "Oaths of Strasbourg" are sworn in the city — one of the oldest written documents recording the Romance (Old French) and Teutonic (Old High German) languages.
• 1015 — The foundation stone is laid for the future Strasbourg Cathedral, the construction of which would last several centuries and gift the world a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
• 1262 — The citizens win a victory over the bishop's authority, and Strasbourg receives the status of a Free Imperial City, contributing to its economic and cultural flourishing.
• Around 1439 — Johannes Gutenberg, while living in Strasbourg, achieves a breakthrough by developing the technology of printing with movable type, which changes the world forever.
• 16th Century — Strasbourg becomes one of the most important centres of the Reformation and Humanism in Europe, attracting many scientists and thinkers.
• 1681 — King Louis XIV of France annexes Strasbourg to his kingdom, which is officially confirmed by the Treaty of Ryswick in 1697.
• 1792 — In Strasbourg, military engineer Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle writes the "War Song for the Army of the Rhine", which later becomes known to the world as "La Marseillaise".
• 1871 — Following the Franco-Prussian War, the city, along with all of Alsace, becomes part of the German Empire.
• 1919 — Following the First World War and according to the Treaty of Versailles, Strasbourg returns to France.
• 1944 — On 23 November, the city is finally liberated by French troops under the command of General Leclerc.
• 1949 — Strasbourg is chosen as the seat of the Council of Europe, laying the foundation for its future status as one of the capitals of a united Europe.
• 1979 — Strasbourg hosts the first session of the European Parliament elected by direct universal suffrage, strengthening its role as the parliamentary capital of Europe.

Economic Development and Urban Planning

The economic development of Strasbourg is inextricably linked to its geographical position on Europe's main waterway — the Rhine. Being a border city, it has served for centuries as a commercial bridge between the German lands and what is now France. The city's economic and urban appearance was shaped by the changing eras, transforming it from a medieval craft centre into a modern metropolis of services, diplomacy, and high technology.

• River Trade and Guilds (Middle Ages). Thanks to its convenient location on the River Ill near the Rhine, the city became a key transport hub. River guilds controlled the transport of local produce, grain, and timber, which ensured an influx of capital and the financing of large-scale construction projects, including the famous cathedral.
• Status of Free Imperial City (1262). Political autonomy gave a powerful boost to the economy: the city gained the right to mint its own coins, collect taxes, and hold international fairs, becoming the financial hub of the region.
• Printing Revolution (15th Century). Johannes Gutenberg's work in Strasbourg turned the city into one of the printing capitals of Europe. This not only stimulated cultural exchange but also contributed to the development of paper production and mechanics.
• Industrialisation and Canals (19th Century). The construction of the Rhine-Rhône Canal and the development of the railway network integrated the city's industry into the pan-European market. This period saw the flourishing of the famous Alsatian brewing, tanning, and tobacco industries.
• "Neustadt" Urban Planning Project (1871–1918). During the period within the German Empire, the city's territory expanded threefold. The construction of a new district with wide avenues, monumental administrative buildings, and a modern railway station modernised the urban environment.
• Creation of the Autonomous Port (1926). The establishment of the Port Autonome de Strasbourg secured the city's status as the country's second-largest river port. The development of the port zone on the Rhine became a driver for logistics and heavy industry.
• European Capital (since 1949). Hosting the Council of Europe, and later the European Parliament, caused a structural restructuring of the economy. The city reoriented towards the service sector, becoming a centre for business tourism, congresses, and international law.

The Architectural Look of Strasbourg: A Journey Through Centuries

The architecture of Strasbourg is a living map of its multifaceted history, where French elegance and German solidity harmoniously coexist on the same streets. Each historical period has left its unique mark in stone and wood, creating a unique urban landscape, from medieval half-timbered houses to the futuristic buildings of European institutions.

Middle Ages and Renaissance: Half-Timbering and Gothic

The heart of Strasbourg — the Grande Île (Grand Island), included in the UNESCO World Heritage list — is a labyrinth of narrow streets and picturesque squares. The architecture of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance dominates here. The jewel of this area is the "Petite France" quarter with its famous half-timbered houses, whose wooden beams create a unique pattern on the facades. The historic centre is crowned by the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame) — a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, striking with its lacy facade of pink sandstone and 142-metre spire. Next to it stands the Kammerzell House, a vivid example of late Gothic and early Renaissance, with its richly decorated carved facade.

French Classicism and Baroque: Elegance and Grandeur

After becoming part of France in 1681, new trends began to appear in the city's architecture. The Germanic influence was replaced by strict and elegant French Classicism. The most outstanding example of this era is the Rohan Palace (Palais Rohan). Designed by the royal architect Robert de Cotte, it became a local "Little Versailles" and demonstrated the luxury and sophistication of French Baroque and Classicism, contrasting with the traditional buildings of the city.

The German Quarter (Neustadt): Imperial Scale

During the period under the German Empire (1871–1918), a new district was built south of the historic centre — Neustadt, or the "German Quarter". Conceived as a showcase of imperial power, it is distinguished by wide avenues, monumental buildings, and an eclectic mix of styles: Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Gothic, and Neo-Baroque. Key buildings in this area include the majestic Rhine Palace (formerly the Imperial Palace), the National University Library, and the National Theatre, forming the ensemble of the Place de la République. This district is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Modern Architecture: European Capital

The status of one of the capitals of a united Europe has given Strasbourg a completely new architectural look, embodied in the European Quarter. Impressive modern buildings made of glass and metal are located here. Standing out among them are the European Parliament building, resembling a huge wing or an unfinished tower, and the dynamic building of the European Court of Human Rights, designed by architect Richard Rogers. These structures symbolise Strasbourg's modern identity as an important political centre of Europe.

Distinguished Personalities in the History of Strasbourg

For centuries, Strasbourg has been a centre that attracted and nurtured talent in various fields — from science and art to politics and religion. Many outstanding figures have left their mark on the city's history, shaping its unique cultural and intellectual landscape.

• Johannes Gutenberg (c. 1400–1468) — The inventor who changed the world. It was in Strasbourg, where he lived from 1434 to 1444, that Gutenberg conducted key experiments which led to the creation of movable type printing technology. This invention turned the city into one of the first and most important centres of book printing in Europe.
• Erwin von Steinbach (c. 1244–1318) — Architect and master builder. Although his biography is largely legendary, he is credited with creating the magnificent facade and a significant part of the Strasbourg Cathedral. His work inspired many, including Goethe, who dedicated the essay "On German Architecture" to him.
• Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle (1760–1836) — Military engineer, poet, and composer. In April 1792, while a garrison captain in Strasbourg, he wrote the "War Song for the Army of the Rhine". The song quickly gained incredible popularity and went down in history as "La Marseillaise" — the national anthem of France.
• Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832) — The great German poet and thinker. In 1770–1771, he studied law at the University of Strasbourg. This period had a huge influence on his work; impressions of the Strasbourg Cathedral and Alsatian culture were reflected in his works and became an important milestone in the "Sturm und Drang" movement.
• Louis Pasteur (1822–1895) — A prominent scientist and one of the founders of microbiology. From 1849 to 1854, he was a professor of chemistry at the University of Strasbourg. The years spent in the city were fruitful for his scientific career and personal life — it was here that he met his future wife.
• Gustave Doré (1832–1883) — A famous artist, engraver, and illustrator of the 19th century. He was born in Strasbourg and spent his childhood here. The atmosphere of the ancient city with its Gothic cathedral and half-timbered houses had a profound influence on his fantastic and expressive style, making him one of the most famous book illustrators in history.
• Albert Schweitzer (1875–1965) — Philosopher, theologian, musician, and physician, Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Schweitzer studied at the University of Strasbourg and later taught at its Faculty of Theology. It was in Strasbourg that he decided to dedicate himself to medicine and serving people in Africa.
• Hans (Jean) Arp (1886–1966) — Poet, artist, and sculptor, one of the key figures of avant-garde art. Born in Strasbourg, he became one of the founders of Dadaism in Zurich and later joined the Surrealists. His work had a significant influence on the development of abstract sculpture.