Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque towns in France, Colmar is located in the northeast in the Alsace region just 10 miles from the Rhine River. Old Town Colmar felt like we stepped back in time with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. And, despite a population of nearly 70,, the medieval section of this small city is entirely walkable. We arrived after lunch for our first optional excursion on our Viking River Cruise of the Rhine. Our guide informed us Colmar is the birthplace of Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor who created Liberty Enlightening the World, otherwise known as the Statue of Liberty.
In fact, we were greeted into the city by a replica of the famous statue. By the way, did you know another replica stands on the River Seine in Paris? How many have you seen? Replica of the Statue of Liberty in Colmar, France. For those with mobility issues, the Petit Train Touristique departed nearby providing narrated tours.
We, however, preferred to walk with our guide pointing out points of interest as we ambled along. The Unterlinden Museum, housed in a 13th-century convent, is one of the most visited fine arts museums outside of Paris and houses the famous Isenheim Altarpiece painted by Matthias Grunwald with carvings by Niclaus of Haguenau. This masterpiece was completed around for the nearby monastery in Isenheim which ministered to peasants suffering from skin diseases.
The altarpiece is a disturbing work of art for its realistic and tortured depiction of the crucifixion of Christ. Restaurant Pfeffel next to Unterlinden Museum. Our next stop was at the House of Heads. Constructed in for wealthy merchant Anton Burger, the facade is adorned with heads.
A cooper, sculpted by Auguste Bartholdi him again! You may have noticed the sign on a building across the street from the House of Heads. He also designed signs around Colmar, several of which are pictured above.
