Photos

Two people meeting in "Place de l'ancienne douane" in Colmar, Alsace, France. This is one of the views I love the most in this small, lovely Alsacian town. Colmar is also known for its Xmas markets and the historic city centre, with wonderful examples of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
The old Customs House (this square brings its name just from this building) completed in 1480, is the town's oldest public building. At the time, it played a central role in Colmar's economy. First entioned in 1370, it was used for the storage and transit of all goods imported into Colmar.

Traders got their supplies here; the weights and measurements office weighed goods and set the royalties to be paid. A committee which held its sessions at the Koïfhus was responsible for the town's funds.

Last but not least, Colmar was the first town in France to put in place a project about lighting its buildings and monuments, and in 1997 was awarded with the special prize of the Académie des Arts de la Rue (Academy for road arts) for its truly exceptional achievement. R.