Strasbourg

Although the European Parliament has several locations, Strasbourg is one of its official seats, where the parliament holds monthly sessions. The decision for Strasbourg as a meeting place was solidified in 1992 and regular sessions have been held since. The city symbolizes European unity and reconciliation, echoing the same sentiments as the Council of Europe, and remains politically significant.

The Strasbourg Convention on Cybercrime, also known as the Budapest Convention, was the first international treaty seeking to address Internet and computer crime by harmonizing national laws, improving investigative techniques, and increasing cooperation among nations. The treaty was adopted on 23 November 2001 and entered into force on 1 July 2004. It was signed in Strasbourg, drawing members from the Council of Europe and other countries.

The Strasbourg Christmas Market, one of the oldest in Europe, traces its history back to 1570, but in its modern form, it has been celebrated annually in a grand fashion since 1988. The market turns the city into a festive location with stalls, decorations, and events, drawing visitors from around the world. It highlights Strasbourg's cultural and historical importance in European holiday traditions.

The European Coal and Steel Community, the European Economic Community, and Euratom, which would later form the pillars of the European Union, began their work in Strasbourg. These institutions were part of efforts to unify Europe post-World War II, seeking economic cooperation to ensure peace and stability on the continent. Strasbourg, as a symbol of reconciliation, was thus chosen as a key location for these efforts.

The Council of Europe was founded on 5 May 1949 in London, with Strasbourg being chosen as its headquarters shortly thereafter. The organization aims to uphold human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in Europe. Strasbourg was selected as the location for the Council due to its symbolic location on the Franco-German border, representing reconciliation and unity post-World War II.

On 23 November 1944, Strasbourg was liberated from German occupation by the French 2nd Armored Division under General Leclerc. This liberation was part of the broader Allied efforts in the liberation of France from Nazi Germany. The event held strong symbolic value, boosting French morale and marking a turning point in the region's war history.

Strasbourg was occupied by German forces on 15 June 1940, during World War II, following the fall of France. The city was annexed into Nazi Germany and was placed under the administration of the Gauleiter Robert Wagner. This occupation lasted until 1944, when Strasbourg was liberated by Allied forces. The experience left a profound impact on the city's post-war identity.

After World War I, the Treaty of Versailles, signed on 28 June 1919, brought an end to the war and mandated the return of Alsace and Lorraine, including Strasbourg, to France. This restoration of the territories symbolized French victory and was a moment of national celebration. Strasbourg's role as a cultural and strategic hub was re-established under French governance.

During the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), Strasbourg was besieged by Prussian forces and became part of the German Empire upon their victory. The Treaty of Frankfurt, signed on 10 May 1871, officially ended the war, resulting in the annexation of Alsace and parts of Lorraine by Germany, including Strasbourg. The city became a symbol of the ongoing Franco-German conflict.

On 30 September 1681, Strasbourg was incorporated into the Kingdom of France following its capture by French forces under King Louis XIV. This marked a significant expansion of French territory under the Sun King's reign. Strasbourg, with its strategic location, was an essential political and military gain, strengthening France's position on its eastern frontier.