How to Pronounce Strasbourg

Meaning and Context

Strasbourg is a historic city in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, renowned as the capital of Alsace and a pivotal cultural and political hub in Europe. Situated on the border with Germany, its unique Franco-German heritage is vividly expressed through its half-timbered houses, world-renowned gastronomy, and the annual Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest Christmas markets on the continent. The city's skyline is dominated by the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture built from pink Vosges sandstone. Beyond its historical charm, Strasbourg holds profound contemporary significance as one of the three official seats of the European Parliament, alongside Brussels and Luxembourg, and is home to the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights, solidifying its status as a premier destination for European Union institutions and political tourism.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The standard spelling is "Strasbourg." Common misspellings and variants often arise from phonetic interpretations or influences from other languages. Frequent errors include "Strasburg" (dropping the 'o'), "Strasbourgh" (adding an unnecessary 'gh'), and "Strasbourq" (incorrectly using a 'q'). The German name for the city is "Straßburg," which features an eszett (ß) and is sometimes Anglicized as "Strassburg." When writing in English, it is important to use the French spelling "Strasbourg" to maintain accuracy, particularly in formal or travel-related contexts. Attention to the silent 'g' at the end can also lead to typographical mistakes.

Example Sentences

After the parliamentary session, the delegates enjoyed a stroll through Strasbourg's picturesque Petite France district, with its charming canals and cobblestone streets.

The intricate astronomical clock inside Strasbourg Cathedral draws thousands of visitors each day, marveling at its Renaissance engineering.

As a symbol of European reconciliation, the city of Strasbourg seamlessly blends its Alsatian traditions with its modern role hosting key EU institutions.

Many students flock to the University of Strasbourg, one of Europe's oldest, to study in a vibrant, cross-border environment.

Planning a trip to the Alsace wine route typically begins with a few days spent exploring the culinary and architectural wonders of Strasbourg.

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