Colmar, France

Welcome to Colmar, a picturesque city located in the Haut-Rhin department of north-eastern France. Known for its well-preserved old town, numerous architectural landmarks, and museums, Colmar is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Situated on the Alsatian Wine Route, the city is considered the capital of Alsatian wine and boasts a sunny microclimate that makes it ideal for wine production. Let’s dive into the history, culture, and attractions that make Colmar a unique and unforgettable destination.

History:
Colmar has a rich history that dates back to the time of Charlemagne. The city was granted the status of a free imperial city by Emperor Frederick II in 1226 and joined the Décapole city league in 1354. Colmar adopted the Protestant Reformation in 1575 and was taken by the Swedish army during the Thirty Years War. The city was conquered by France under King Louis XIV in 1673 and was annexed by the newly formed German Empire in 1871. Colmar returned to France after World War I and was annexed by Nazi Germany in 1940 before reverting to French control after the battle of the Colmar Pocket in 1945.

Geography and Climate:
Colmar is located on the Lauch River, a tributary of the Ill, and is connected to the Rhine in the east by a canal. The city is situated directly to the east of the Vosges and features an oceanic climate that is significantly modified by its far inland position. Colmar has a sunny microclimate and is one of the driest cities in France, with an annual precipitation of just 607 mm (23.9 in), making it ideal for Alsace wine. The city is therefore closer to a continental climate, and winter and summer temperatures can sometimes be the coldest or hottest in France.

Population:
In 2017, the city had a municipal population of 69,105, and the metropolitan area of Colmar had a population of 199,234 in 2018. Colmar is the center of the arrondissement of Colmar-Ribeauvillé, which had