Colmar has more than 100,000 inhabitants and is the site for the prefecture of the department of the Haut-Rhin. The Alsatian wine-growing industry and many important vineyards revolve around Colmar.
Colmar takes its name from the Colombarium tower which was located in the center of the Carolingien domain. In the 12th century, the area became a fortified market town. In 1226 Frederic 2nd gave the city an imperial title with all the privileges that went with such a standing. In 1648, the Treaty of Westphalia confirmed the possession of Alsace by France. Colmar escaped destruction of the 2nd World War miraculously and can today offer one of the most charming city centers of Alsace.
author: Boštjan Burger