Alsace Region Celebrates Liberty Theme with Special Events Throughout Summer; Region Marks Centenary Death of Bartholdi, Creator of the Statue of Liberty.

COLMAR, France -- This summer, the Alsatian region of France observes the 100th anniversary of the death of Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, the creator of the Statue of Liberty, who was born in Colmar. As part of the commemoration, numerous festivities have been scheduled. Events include the unveiling of a "new" Statue of Liberty, the 16th International Music Festival in Colmar which pays tribute to American musicians, and special exhibits at the Bartholdi Museum, among many other activities. Additional events are also scheduled to occur throughout the year.

In an official celebration on July 4th, to coincide with Independence Day in the U.S., the town of Colmar will inaugurate a 12 meter high replica of the Statue of Liberty. And, now through September 5, the Bartholdi Museum in Colmar will feature thirty events expressing admiration for the life and works of the talented painter and sculptor. For more information, please visit www.tourisme-alsace.com or www.bartholdi2004.com.

The International Music Festival in Colmar, July 2-14, and ranked by The New York Times as among the top ten European Festivals, further embraces the theme of liberty with performances by American musicians and composers. Jessye Norman will be the featured star at this year's list of prominent performers. The festival's concerts will be held in St. Matthieu's Church, St. Pierre's Chapel and the Old Customs House, all monuments steeped in history, showcasing the city's exceptional heritage. For more information on the festival, please visit www.tourisme-alsace.com or www.festival-colmar.com.

"Our region has had a long lasting relationship with American visitors based on mutual understanding and common values," said Olivier de Richoufftz, Director of the Alsace Tourist Board. "The tourism relationship between the U.S. and France is strong and the Statue of Liberty is the symbol promoting freedom and cooperation. Americans will feel at home in Alsace and will enjoy the rich heritage and culinary delights our region offers."

About the Alsace Tourism Board

The Alsatian region, situated in the far north-east corner of France, is known for its rich heritage and culture, fine dining, world class wines and leisurely activities. Although it is one of the country's smallest regions, the area has more Michelin rated restaurants than any other region of France. The region's cultural highlights include the Strasbourg Cathedral, the Schlumpf Collection, the largest car collection in the world, and Issenheim Altarpiece. It is one of the top European tourist destinations, which welcomes 7 million visitors annually. For more information on Alsace, please visit www.tourisme-alsace.com.