Colmar, a town that appears to have sprung out of a fairy tale, is tucked away in the northeastern French region of Alsace. With its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and charming canals, Colmar has long been a favourite among tourists looking for a little bit of old-world charm. What many people might not know, though, is that Hayao Miyazaki's cherished animated film, "Howl's Moving Castle" drew heavily on the ideas presented in this charming town. Let us delve into the enchanted charm of Colmar in France, taking a tour of its most alluring attractions and paying particular attention to the particular places that served as inspiration for the fantastical setting of Miyazaki's masterwork.
Colmar has a long history dating back to the ninth century, making it a significant centre of trade and culture. The town has been influenced by both French and German cultures because of its closeness to the border, as seen by the well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture. This singular fusion of styles gives Colmar its distinct charm, making it a living museum of European history.
Colmar's Old Town, a tangle of winding streets dotted with vibrant half-timbered homes, is the city's centre. It's as though you've travelled back in time to stroll around here. Some important landmarks that travellers to this region must check out include the Koïfhus, a former customs house turned exhibition and market space, and the Maison Pfister, a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture with its elaborate facade and wooden gallery. The Old Town's allure and architectural splendour served as major sources of inspiration for "Howl's Moving Castle," especially in the scenes that showed Sophie's hometown.
Little Venice is one of Colmar's most charming neighbourhoods. The canals in this quaint neighbourhood are surrounded by brightly painted houses and flower-filled window boxes. Boat tours along the canals offer visitors a unique way to appreciate the town's natural beauty. The idyllic canals and vibrant colours of Little Venice's surroundings bring to mind the surreal sequences from Hayao Miyazaki's film.
Colmar's skyline is dominated by the magnificent Gothic structure known as St. Martin's Church. Constructed during the 13th and 14th centuries, the church's elaborate stone carvings and tall spires make it an architectural wonder. The opulence and historical significance of St. Martin's Church is reminiscent of the regal castles and stately structures seen in “Howl's Moving Castle.”
The Unterlinden Museum is home to a wealth of masterpieces for art enthusiasts. The museum, which is housed in a former Dominican convent, has a collection of artwork ranging from medieval to modern. The Isenheim Altarpiece, a magnificent piece of religious art by Matthias Grünewald, is its most well-known display. The museum's extensive collection and historically significant atmosphere offer insight into the creative legacy that shaped Miyazaki's graphic narratives.
Colmar was also the birthplace of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor best known for designing the Statue of Liberty. Situated in his former residence, the Bartholdi Museum presents his artistic creations and provides an understanding of his life and creative process. The town's artistic legacy is showcased in the museum's exhibits, as is the impact Colmar had on artists such as Miyazaki, who found inspiration in the town's rich cultural heritage.
The rich, delectable Alsatian cuisine—a delightful fusion of French and German flavours—must be tasted on any visit to Colmar. Savour regional specialities such as traditional meat and potato stew baeckeoffe, a thin-crust pastry topped with cream, onions, and bacon, and choucroute garnie, a hearty dish of sauerkraut with sausages and meats. These dishes go well with the well-known aromatic white wines of the area. A trip to one of Colmar's many markets, particularly the Marché Couvert, will introduce visitors to the city's thriving food scene with its abundance of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, meats, and baked goods.
The architecture of "Howl's Moving Castle" was directly inspired by the Maison Pfister, one of Colmar's most famous structures. Its elaborate carvings, wooden balconies, and elaborate facade all perfectly convey the spirit of the fantastical world that Miyazaki created. For lovers of the movie, the building is a must-see because of its architectural beauty and historical significance.
The way Sophie's hometown is portrayed in the movie is reminiscent of the peaceful canals and meandering streets of Colmar. The town's vivid hues, endearing bridges, and homes decked with flowers produce a mystical ambience that is clearly captured in Miyazaki's animation. It's easy to picture the characters from "Howl's Moving Castle" coming to life in this enchanted setting when strolling through Colmar.
The meticulous attention to detail and imaginative world-building found in Miyazaki's films are well known. Colmar's distinctive fusion of natural beauty, historical architecture, and cultural diversity made it the ideal setting for the magical and wacky world of "Howl's Moving Castle." The town is a favourite travel destination for admirers of Miyazaki's art because of its timeless charm and fairytale atmosphere, which are expertly portrayed in the movie.
The best time to visit Colmar, France, is typically in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer season.
Spring brings blooming flowers and vibrant colours, making it ideal for exploring the town’s picturesque streets.
Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage and the charming ambience of the town as it prepares for winter festivities, including the famous Christmas markets that start in late November.
If you're specifically interested in the Christmas markets, visiting in December can also be magical, though it's more crowded. Overall, late spring and early fall are perfect for enjoying Colmar’s enchanting atmosphere without the peak tourist rush.