This northeastern French city houses a Gothic cathedral with 70,000 square feet of stained glass, a modern art museum with an undulating roof, and medieval gates along its two rivers.
Metz, a city in northeastern France, is known for its Saint-Étienne Cathedral with expansive stained glass windows that define the city's skyline. You can explore ancient Roman ruins, admire Gothic architecture, and visit the Centre Pompidou-Metz for modern art. The city sits at the confluence of the Moselle and Seille rivers, which have influenced its development over time.
Architectural Heritage
As you walk through Metz, you'll see structures from various periods. The Saint-Étienne Cathedral, a Gothic building, contains 70,000 square feet of stained glass, the largest expanse in France. In the city center, you'll find the Porte des Allemands, a fortified medieval gate that was once part of the city's defensive walls. The Imperial Quarter, built during the German annexation, is home to grand Wilhelmine-style buildings, including the railway station.
Centre Pompidou-Metz
Opened in 2010, the Centre Pompidou-Metz has become an important part of the city's cultural scene. This modern art museum, designed by Shigeru Ban, has an undulating roof inspired by a Chinese hat. Inside, you can view rotating exhibitions of contemporary art from the collection of its Parisian counterpart. The center also hosts multidisciplinary events that attract art professionals and visitors interested in contemporary culture.
Parks and River Walks
Metz has many parks and gardens throughout the city. You can relax in the Esplanade or explore the Jardin Botanique. For a longer walk, head to the banks of the Moselle River. Here, you can stroll or bike along the water's edge, seeing the city's historic buildings reflected in the river.
Local Cuisine
Metz's location at the crossroads of French and German influences is evident in its food. Try the quiche Lorraine, a savory tart that originated in this region. The mirabelle plum, closely associated with the area, is used in various dishes and desserts, especially during the annual Mirabelle Festival in August. At the covered market, you can sample regional cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh produce. For dessert, try a Paris-Metz at a local patisserie - it's a cake made with macarons and raspberry mousse.
Transportation
You can reach Metz by high-speed TGV train from Paris in 82 minutes. Once in the city, you'll find that many attractions are within walking distance of each other in the compact center. For longer trips, Metz has a bus network. If you prefer cycling, you can use the extensive bike paths, including routes along the rivers.
