Instead of Wishful Wednesday...

A while ago some of you introduced your cities. Loved the idea. I wanted to participate but couldn't at that time. Don't ask. So, here I am introducing the city I was born in, and now live in (even though it's far away from most of you - it's in Europe!)...a bit late but who cares. I certainly don't. Do you?! Welcome to Luzern.

This city is conveniently located in the middle of Switzerland, so close to Italy, even closer to Germany and Austria, and just a few hours away from Paris! Awesome, huh?!
Due to its location, with its mountains and Lake Lucerne, it belongs to the top tourist spots in the country. With its almost and only 60'000 people it is rather tiny, though by January 1, 2010 its population is being extended to about 75'000 (it merges with another town). Big, huh? Rather small I know. It's still a city though! Oh, and Chicago is one of its sister cities. (I'm thrilled!)

Among its famous sights is the wooden Chapel Bridge, originally built around 1350. Its tower used to be the prison and/or dungeon. Much of the bridge had to be replaced though due to a horrendous fire in 1993. Inside the bridge are paintings from around the 17th century showing the city's historical events. Today some of them are still real, others unfortunately copies.

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The second must-see thing in this city is the dying lion. It was carved out of natural rock in memory of the Swiss mercenaries in 1792. Mark Twain described this lion as "the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world."

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Tradition is something we all have to fight for and sometimes we are lucky enough to hold on to it. Luzern holds on to its very own and is known for its crazy time each year around February. Carnival time. It happens before lent, and includes parades, and public celebrations for roughly one week starting on a Thursday at 5am, and ending some time on the following Wednesday (Ash Wednesday) at maybe 4am (sometimes even around noon). In the US for instance something similar is known as Mardi Gras. Here they call it Fasnacht. Not all but most people in here live for this so-called fifth season. It's reflected in pretty much anything...including buildings, names, restaurants, statues, fountains...you name it.

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Throughout the year there are lots of musical events going on...like the Lucerne Festival with its classical highlights in summer, Blue Balls Festival in July brings international music stars from the jazz, funk and blues scene to the city, Lucerne Blues Festival in November, and the Rose d'Or in spring time.

I'm sure there are plenty more facts about this city. Best is I'm just going to add pictures and let you look at them. All pictures taken by me unless otherwise stated. Have fun.

Mt. Pilatus!

Breathtaking views over the city and surrounding area when it's clear on top.

This is at sunrise.

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One tower of the city wall (built in 1386)

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Tourists and locals getting off the wooden bridge

Mt. Pilatus covered...taken October 2009

Mt. Rigi covered in snow, taken early October 2009

Legal graffiti on an apartment building.

It's going to be rebuilt in 2011 and until then they thought it was nice to show some color.

I love seeing this colorful house each day.

I love this city, and it will always be home to me. No matter where I am.

Though as wonderful and historic it may be it is time to discover more.
And you all know I am a big city kinda girl, apparently trapped in a small city. Understand me now?!??

Hope you liked it.

xoxo