SPEYER
Speyer is a beautiful old town, with a population of over 50,000. Situated approximately 100 miles south of Frankfurt and 20 miles west of Heidelberg on the banks of the Rhine in the Rhine-Neckar region.
Speyer Christmas Market 
The twinning link between Spalding and Speyer originated in 1956 as an educational link, and has since been strengthened by many exchange visits.
Speyer has an ancient heritage and is dominated by its magnificent Cathedral which was begun by Konrad II in the 9th Century. The town's historical significance is demonstrated by the fact that for almost 300 years it was the burial place of the Holy Roman Emperors and the Cathedral houses several of their tombs, alongside kings and other royalty.
The Pfalz Historical Museum, the Office of Official Records and the Pfalz District Library are all located within Speyer. It also notably has the only post graduate college (Administrative Science) in Germany.
Speyer has progressed into a modern competitive urban centre of the Rhine-Neckar region.
SEZANNE
Originally, the link between Spalding and Sezanne began in 1958 as a private arrangement between several residents of Holbeach.
The town is relatively small containing less than 7,000 inhabitants and is situated 75 miles east of Paris in the most famous wine growing region, Champagne.
Sezanne itself is very old and picturesque, and is an important central point of agriculture, commerce, industry, wine production and craft.
The surrounding areas are packed with small villages and towns. Places of historic interest include L'Englise St Denis, built during the 1550's, which houses a 17th Century organ in the style of Louis XIII.
If you would like further details on twinning or would like to become involved, please contact: Vicky Thomson, Leisure and Tourism Development Manager, Tel: 01775 761161 Ext 4437, or email: vthomson@sholland.gov.uk
