Travel to Lorraine

"You may have Alsace and Lorraine under your power, but in spite of you we remain French" The possession of Lorraine has caused many conflicts throughout history. It should be said that this French region benefits from a particularly unique location, since it is the only one to share its borders with three countries (Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium).
This unique location placed Lorraine at the heart of the two World Wars and continues to be haunted by the many stigmas of these dark moments in France's history. The Maginot Line and the Verdun Citadel are obviously the most testimonial constructions of these two conflicts. Verdun, the Way of the Ladies, and the Holy Way are all names which resound in the ears of schoolchildren, albeit increasingly less. To never forget these horrific times and to avoid ever making the same mistakes, many museums and memorials (the most famous being the Daumont Ossuary) have been created in the region.
All this being said, Lorraine shouldn't be a destination reserved solely for learning about this part of history. Its extremely unique geographical position has made it a privileged crossroads throughout history, with Germanic and French influences marking its architecture, art, and culture. Lorraine was the birthplace of the Carolingian Renaissance (with Chrodegang), of glass art (museum of glass and crystal, the art of stained glass windows) and of art nouveau, among other things.
With over 3,200 mi² of forest, making it one of the most heavily wooded areas in France, Lorraine is also a region with undeniable natural charm. Forests, ponds and the Vosges mountains are very popular with hikers, skiers and fans of fauna and flora. And of course, like everywhere in France, gastronomy holds a top spot in Lorraine. 'Quiche Lorraine' is obviously the first thing that comes to mind but other traditional specialities include macaroons (originating in Nancy), Lorraine pâté, Lorraine stew, the sweets of Verdun and fir tree honey from the Vosges mountains.