Colmar Off The Beaten Path

The statue (1888) of Bartholdi depicts Johann Roesselmann, who lost his life as successful defender of Colmar of 1262 in the war with the Bishop of Strasbourg.

The fountain is located on a small square south of the old town, where Little Venice meets the Grand Rue. Very charming. Enjoy the peaceful place.

The "Fishermen's quarter" is located right between the Tanners quarter and Little Venice. Fishermen and -merchants sold all sorts of fish and seafood here until mid 20th century.

Again very picturesque, colourful timber-framed townhouses. They were restored 1978 - 81.

This fountain is a work of Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi (1864). The fountain was destroyed by the Nazis in 1940 and reconstructed in 1958.

The statues at the four corners depict four continents. Armand Joseph Bruat (1796 - 1855) was admiral and commander of the French Pacific Fleet. Born in Colmar he died after a glorious victory in the Krim War.

The creativity of human beings is amazing. Who would have thought to communicate this message in this way. I don't know what street it was on, but I saw at least one other example. It seemed to help keep the beaten paths relatively clear.

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Have you ever bothered to look at Shop signs?

Here in Colmar they form part of the historical street scenes. Not only the buildings itself are old and worthwhile to see, but also all the small details.

Have you ever heard of Hansi?

When you are in Colmar or any other touristic place in Alsace, you can by his handdrawn street scenes as postcards everywhere. Look closely and you will discover, that some of the Shop signs were designed by him.

Colmar is not only half timber houses (they have even very modern building!) but nevertheless, it was amazing to discover in the old city center an Art Nouveau houses standing oddly between half-timbered houses.

It was a surprise to spot this farmyard through an open gate, standing in the city center, along rue des Marchands. It does not seem to be a farm anymore but, given its condition, it must have been used until not very long ago.