In Metz, a stroll of places in Christmas markets

As in neighboring Alsace, Germany or Luxembourg, Metz attaches particular importance to the end of the year. “During this festive and warm period, we meet up with friends to drink mulled wine in the illuminated streets”, says Carole Bisenius-Penin, professor of literature at the University of Lorraine. “My students are inspired by this atmosphere and write under my direction texts evocative of the magic of Christmas. “

The walk can start on the medieval Place Saint-Louis, whose arcades date back to the 13th century.e century: fifty chalets are installed there (there are crafts and plenty to eat, such as pancakes, gingerbread or even potato pancakes, a local specialty). Place Saint-Jacques is the heart of the city, with all its cafes and eleven other chalets.

Lorraine whiskey

Place d’Armes, on the side of the cathedral, one of the tallest in France and with beautiful stained glass windows, a big wheel allows you to admire Metz from above. Crossing an arm of the Moselle, you reach the Place de la Comédie and its 18th century Opera-Theatere century. “Here, the Christmas market becomes a gastronomic village where I go every Sunday evening with my family: you can taste tarte flambée, snails or oysters in a magnificent setting. “

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The walk can end in the vast Place de la République, where the MOSL chalet is located. This local label gives pride of place to “Moselle quality” products (effigies of Saint Nicolas, bottles of mirabelle plum or even Lorraine whiskey). Not to mention the Meisenthal Christmas balls, made each year by a different artist for the International Center for Glass Art: “ This year, the Piaf, sold in limited series, was imagined by designer Harmonie Begon. The holidays can begin …

Metz Christmas markets 2021, until December 30.

Around the markets, the good plans of Carole Bisenius-Penin

Sleep: between sturdy walls. “I always recommend sleeping at the Hotel La Citadelle. This old military building dates from 1559! The thickness of the rough stone walls is impressive. It is also an intimate and comfortable place, decorated with works of art, with beautiful lighting. I often go there for appointments. The hotel is attached to the Arsenal, a former storage place for weapons and ammunition, which hosts the Orchester National de Metz. ”
The Hotel La Citadelle, 5, avenue Ney.

Dinner: enlightened. “I would like to salute the work of the young chef Célia Bertrand. Its restaurant is called La Lanterne, in homage to the neighboring cathedral, nicknamed “the lantern of the good Lord” because of the extent of its stained-glass windows (we can see this when entering the building). At Célia, I recently feasted on a black Moselle poultry with celery, morels and yellow wine. Because this chef has also worked in the Jura, with her companion sommelier, Romain Bouchesèche (what a predestined name!). ”
Lantern, 17, place de Chambre.

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