"...The first markets were as much about survival as the opportunity to celebrate the coming holiday with family and friends. Huddled around open fires in the village square, medieval market goers gathered together to keep the cold at bay..." (VRC)
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"...Christmas markets have livened up the winter season throughout
Europe for centuries. Held in city centers and town squares with Gothic
cathedrals and medieval churches as dramatic backdrops, these festive
markets are a feast for the senses...." (VRC)
a Koln elf
tower windmill in Heidelberg
souvenir from Koln, empty
a Black Forest tale
Heidelberg delights
a Rudesheim market
warming gluhwein in Koln (Tim taking photo)
classic Christmas pastry in Colmar
509 steps (Koln's Dom Cathedral) above one of city's seven markets
window nativity in Strasbourg
Strasbourg gingerman
Judy & Pat, eyeing the Christmas pastries in Strasbourg