Alsace is a region in northeastern France, located on the west bank of the Rhine River. It is bordered by Germany and Switzerland and is one of the 26 administrative regions of France. The region is known for its distinctive culture, cuisine, and architecture, as well as its wine-producing vineyards. Alsace is also the historical home of the Germanic tribe of the Franks, and is now part of the larger region of Grand Est. Alsace is also known as the region of Lorraine, which is the name given to the area after it was annexed by France in 1766.