We discovered the charming medieval town of Turckheim on our European tour thru Southern Germany, and France. Turckheim is located near Colmar in France and is first mentioned in Gallo Roman times, in the year 742.

We caused quite a stir and started a lot of wonderful conversations, driving a red Volkswagen to which I had attached a small American Flag on the Antenna, so we would not become homesick.  No cars where allowed in the town of Turckheim. We parked outside the city near the dry mote which encircles the town and the city wall that is still partially intact. Entering the village through a large town gate, through one of the watch towers, felt like time travel into a distant past. Small narrow cobblestone streets and houses built with large beams exposed and small windows with boxes of geraniums in all colors created a warm, charming and peaceful atmosphere. The towns well has been converted into a large Planter filled with summer flowers, and the town square features small shops filled with the usual tourist merchandise, but also lovely pottery, crystal, designed jewelry, antiques and the famous wine shops.

Memorable was also a wonderful meal accompanied by the fruity wine of the region. We entered the “Caveau” going down a stairwell of hewn and worn stone steps. The cellar atmosphere was complete with large wine kegs along the walls, wooden benches for seating and wooden tables. This family style arrangement started a wonderful conversation in French, German and English. With the help of the wine all language and cultural barriers were easily overcome. While writing this article we looked through the slides and with the help of Google maps retraced part of our trip through France.

Needles to say “ French Village “ is one of my favorites.

Thank you for visiting the Watt Gallery

Karin Watt

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