What is the history of the Christmas market in Strasbourg?

An Ancestral Tradition Spanning Over 400 Years The Christmas market in Strasbourg, also known as Christkindelsmärik, is a true institution. This tradition dates back to 1570, initiated by Pastor Johannes Flinner following the Protestant Reformation.

What is the history of Christmas markets?

The origins of Christmas markets

The Christmas market's roots stretch back to Vienna in 1296, when Duke Albrecht I authorized 14-day fairs in the month of December. Despite the timing of these festivities, the fairs weren't directly connected to Christmas and did not appear to be religious in nature.

Why is Strasbourg celebrated for Christmas?

Strasbourg is famous for its Christmas as it has the oldest Christmas Market in Europe, Christkindelsmärik, dating back to 1570.

What is the history of French Christmas markets?

The very first Christmas market in France!

Called Christkindelsmärik (Market of infant Jesus), it has taken place in the capital of Alsace since 1570. Back then, Strasbourg and Alsace were part of the Holy Empire (and not of France). The tradition of running Christmas markets in French towns is only recent.

Where is the oldest Christmas market in Europe?

Strasbourg, France

Welcome to the birthplace of the oldest Christmas market in Europe, which was called the “Christkindelsmärik”, or market of the infant Jesus, back in 1570. Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas” and is one of the largest markets, boasting more than 300 chalet stalls.

Strasbourg Christmas Market Food You Must-Try

What is the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe?

What is the most famous Christmas market in the world?

The main Christmas market in Nuremberg, Germany – Christkindlesmarkt – is one of the oldest and best-known markets globally. It's known for its array of handcrafted goods for sale and for its fantastic German Bratwurst, gingerbread, and other traditional treats.

When was the first Christmas market in Strasbourg?

Treat yourself to a magical break in Strasbourg. Dating back to 1570, Strasbourg's Christmas market is the oldest one in France and one of the oldest in Europe.

Why is Strasbourg France called the Christmas capital of Europe?

Christmas, like nowhere else

“Strasbourg, capital of Christmas” is exceptionally renowned. Every year, close to two million visitors flock to the Alsatian capital to experience its enchanting market. For over a month, Strasbourg is imbued with a festive, spiritual ambiance with few parallels anywhere else in Europe.

What is the most Christmassy town in France?

Paris and Strasbourg top the list of the best cities in France to enjoy the magic of Christmas. In addition to its dedicated Christmas markets and events, the French capital sets up, as it does every year, outdoor ice rinks to allow both locals and tourists to enjoy winter sports within city walls.

Why is Strasbourg so important?

Strasbourg plays a major role as a business, commercial, and cultural centre. Besides its traditional role as the chief city of Alsace, Strasbourg is also the seat of a number of European institutions and bodies including the European Parliament, the Council of Europe, and the European Court of Human Rights.

Is Strasbourg cheap or expensive?

Yes, Strasbourg is generally cheaper than Paris. While you won't find a ton of budget-friendly options, hotels are still cheaper than in Paris. Food and entertainment are also much less expensive in Strasbourg.

Is Strasbourg Christmas market worth it?

Yes, the Christmas market in Strasbourg is definitely worth it. As the home of Christmas, it will easily get you in the festive spirit and with 13 markets to explore, you won't get bored. Strasbourg is a beautiful city and very easy to walk around, plus it has a 30-metre Christmas Tree with over 7km of lights.

What was the original purpose of Christmas markets?

This was in the eastern hilltop town of Bautzen, Saxony. These early markets started by only selling meat but evolved to provide other everyday purchases, and eventually seasonal treats, decorations and crafts – accompanied by singing and dancing.

Where is the biggest Christmas market in the world?

The largest Christmas market and one of the most well known is the Vienna Christmas World on Rathausplatz, near the Rathaus, Vienna's historic city hall.

Where is the oldest Christmas market located?

Striezelmarkt Christmas Market in Dresden is not only one of the most beautiful and biggest Christmas markets in Germany (and perhaps Europe) but it is almost certainly the oldest in the world.

Is Strasbourg historically French or German?

It became a French city in 1681, after the conquest of Alsace by the armies of Louis XIV. In 1871, after the Franco-Prussian War, the city became German again, until 1918 (end of World War I), when it reverted to France.

Is Strasbourg originally German?

After having changed nationality four times between 1870 and 1945, Strasbourg today is a symbol of Franco-German reconciliation and European integration. The following is a detailed history of Strasbourg, France.

Was Strasbourg ever German?

The Prussians brought Strasbourg into the new German Empire in 1871 following the Franco-Prussian War; it was then taken back by the French at the Treaty of Versailles, and then again by the Germans in 1940, before finally assuming its current position as an important city in eastern France in 1945.

What is the biggest Christmas market in Strasbourg?

Located in front of Strasbourg Cathedral, the Christmas Market at Place de la Cathédrale is the most popular one. Visit it in the evening and have a cup of vin chaud (mulled wine) while enjoying the magical backdrop of one of France's best Gothic cathedrals.

How many people visit Strasbourg Christmas market?

With more than 2.5 million visitors expected each year for the Christmas market, Strasbourg is with no doubt THE capital of Christmas and the city of lights!

What is the Strasbourg Christmas market called?

At the heart of France's oldest Christmas market

For four centuries now, the emblematic Christkindelsmärik has been working its magic in the European capital. Over 300 wooden chalets, spread around different squares in the city, invite you to make some mesmerising discoveries in a fairytale atmosphere!

What is the most beautiful Christmas market?

Colmar, France. Just over two hours from Paris by train, Colmar has made a name for itself as a fairy-tale worthy town that goes all out when it comes to Christmas.

Which city has the best Christmas market?

What 3 countries have Christmas markets?

Experience and savour the festive traditions on the Continent as we visit the Netherlands and Germany, and even enjoy a visit to the Three-Country Point in Vaalserberg where these two countries meet Belgium.