Metz Buildings

Metz is a city in France that is close to the border with Germany. In different wars the city has passed back and forth between the two countries. The road coming into Metz from Germany passes by a very old gate in the wall of the old city. It is a beautiful example of a defensive gate house. There are towers and walls on both sides of a bridge and the ancient road into the city had to pass through the small fortress to get into the city.

The gate is called the German Gate, not because it belonged to Germany, but because a long time ago the towers were used as a hospital run by the Teutonic Knights. Since most of the knights were from Germany the gate was named after them. Heinrich liked looking out of the fortress windows. There were some pretty views of the river that ran under the bridge.

In the center of the city is a huge cathedral. Part of the cathedral was under repair but that is true of almost every cathedral in Europe. They are very old and very big so it takes a lot of work and a lot of time to keep them in good repair.

The entrance to the Cathedral had some very nicely carved sculptures. The largest figures were of Saints and Prophets. Each one has an identifying set of symbols to help people who couldn't read to recognize the sculptures. Under the people were carved animals and faces as well.

On the other side were a second set of sculptures. These statues had different hair styles and hats. It helps understand how people along time ago dressed and how they used some of their tools. Under one of the statues is a carved elephant.