📍Colmar, the city of inspiration for animation.

⸻ 🏛 History of the City • Colmar is located in the Alsace region in northeastern France (bordering Germany), so the city has a blend of French and German cultures.  • The city's name, Columbarium, was first recorded in 823, when Emperor Louis the Pious (son of Charlemagne) granted it land.  • The city achieved "Free Imperial City" status in the 13th century under Frederick II, granting it greater privileges and autonomy.  During the Middle Ages, Colmar flourished thanks to trade, wine, and small industries. Beautiful buildings from that era remain and serve as city landmarks, such as the Maison Pfister (1537) and the Koïfhus (1480).  • Colmar was annexed several times by France or Germany, such as its annexation by France in 1679 through the Treaty of Nijmegen.  • During World War II, the "Colmar Pocket" (a battle for the area around Colmar) was fought, which also gave the city a military role.  • Today, Colmar is considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, with its old town, characterized by its Alsace-style half-timbered houses, and a popular tourist destination.  ⸻ 🎬 The city that inspired the animated film "Howl's Moving Castle" (Japanese: ハウルの動く城). Hayao Miyazaki of Studio Ghibli visited Colmar to study the city's architecture and atmosphere, which he used as the basis for the film's city scenes.  • Colmar was also cited as the inspiration for the Walt Disney Animation Studios animated film "Beauty and the Beast" (1991) for the village where Belle lives. Although it wasn't actually filmed in Colmar, the architecture and atmosphere are very similar.  ⸻ ✨ Why you should visit: • The atmosphere is like something straight out of a fairy tale: colorful wooden houses, a small canal (the "Petite Venise"), and ancient cobblestone streets. • The city is rich in history (churches, ancient ruins, medieval buildings), and famous local wines. #GetDiscountsWithoutRisk