For more than 2000 years Alsace had been stuck between 2 great civilizations: the Latin and the Germanic. Although these historical and cultural currents contributed to its wealth, the region suffered long and dramatic conflicts, as its fertile lands often aroused avidity. The history of Alsace is complex and fascinating.

Alsace is known to have had inhabitants as far back as 4000 years BC. Probably they were Celts, who were part of Gaul until the first Christian era.

In 58 BC, Romans settle in Alsace after Julius Cesar beats the Germans. They develop the region from their camps and in 74, the town of Strasbourg appears in history for the first time under the name of Argentoratum.

Christianity appears in the 4^th century, and after the departure of the Romans during the 5^th century many tribes and dynasties govern the region. The Alumans, the Alains (both Germanic tribes), the Merovigiens, the Francs, they all come and go until the Hoenstauffens in the 12^th century. Under Frederic Barberousse, this dynasty contributes to the expansion and boom of Alsace, which becomes an economic, technological and intellectual power. It was during this period that the cathedral of Strasbourg was built.

The 15^th century sees Alsace become the cradle of a new technique or industry, the art of printing. It attracts all those who want to spread new ideologies. Many of its towns played a major role in the birth and development of Protestantism. Many famous theologians such as Martin Bucer, Beatus Rhenanus, Luther and Calvin lived and taught here.

This prosperity abruptly comes to an end with the 30 years war between 1618 and 1648. Alsace is invaded many times and devastated by plague and famine. The treaty of Munster in 1648 brings about the progressive integration of the province - except Strasbourg and Mulhouse - to the French Kingdom.  Louis XIV succeeds in restoring its material wealth while allowing its intellectual and religious freedom. In 1681 Strasbourg is also annexed and the Rhine is established as the border.  During the French Revolution, in 1792, it is in Strasbourg that the Marseillaise (the French Hymn) is composed. Finally in 1798 Mulhouse voluntarily binds itself to France.

In 1871, Napoleon III is defeated and Alsace is German again until 1918, end of WW1. In 1940, the German victory sees Alsace under the 3^rd Reich. Many are forced to join the forces while others succeed in joining France and participate in the liberation of their province.

In 1959 Strasbourg is chosen to house The European Council, and later in 1979 The European Parliament.