Petite Venise, or Little Venice, is a picturesque and historic sector located in the Krutenau district in the southern part of Colmarâs historic center, in Alsace, France. This charming area, named after Venice, Italy, is known for its scenic canals of the Lauch River. The district is filled with half-timbered houses, painted in traditional Alsatian colors, dating from the 14th to the 18th century.The area was originally inhabited by a rural community of winegrowers, gardeners, and boatmen. The Krutenau, which etymologically refers to places of vegetable cultivation near cities, was developed in the Middle Ages as a gardening area on a former marshy area. The Lauch River, which crosses the city, was used to irrigate the crops and allowed the gardeners boatmen to transport their vegetable productions directly to the covered market quay by traditional flat-bottomed boats.Today, Petite Venise is a preserved traditional and old sector, attracting tourists with its numerous charming hotels, restaurants, winstubs (traditional Alsatian wine bars), bakeries, and shops. It is one of the most picturesque and typical places not only in Colmar but throughout Alsace. Traditional flat-bottomed boat rides are organized on the Lauch, reminiscent of the gondolas of Venice, between the covered market of Colmar and the old vegetable gardens (now a green residential area of Colmar).From the colorful flower-decked bridges and docks, the tranquil alleys, the vibrant craftsmanship, to the rich gastronomy and wine culture, Petite Venise offers a unique blend of history, culture, and romance, making it a perfect holiday destination for relaxation and sightseeing.
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