Our one month, three part visit to France concluded with a five day exploration of Paris and its surrounding areas. We were last here three years ago and saw all of the sights one is supposed to see when in Paris (the trip report on that previous visit can be seen here). So, this time, we broadened our reach a bit and also visited notable areas outside of the city (earlier in the month, we spent time two weeks in Chamonix, France - see this trip report and one week in the Loire Valley - see this trip report).
Rouen
Located about one and half hours by train northwest of Paris, Rouen is the capital of France's Normandy region.
The number of exraordinary churches here boggles the mind. All are so impressive you just can't help but take pictures of them.
 |
Their interiors are pretty cool as well.
Developed in the medieval and renassaince periods, the city has done a good job at ensuring its half-timbered houses are well-preserved.
Joan of Arc was burned at the stake here in Rouen in 1431. This modern day cross marks the spot where it happened.
Palace of Versailles
The word "stunning" best describes the Palace. Starting out as a hunting lodge for the well-to-do, the Palace was expanded and turned into a royal residence by Louis XIV in the late 1600s.
This national treasure is full of priceless works of art and masterpieces at every turn.
The most notable of the Palace's interiors is the Hall of Mirrors. Pure opulence.
While the Palace is impressive in its own right, its outside gardens and fountains are world class.
We had some time to kill while waiting for our scheduled train back to Paris. We were pleased when we discovered a very lively outdoor market in the center of Versailles city.
Eiffel Tower
Back to Paris and some time at the Eiffel Tower. During one of our early evenings there, we enjoyed the light and sound show while sipping wine and sparkling water.
And here are some daytime shots of one of the world's most recognizable landmarks.
Les Invalides
A former hospital for wounded warriors, this is now the site of museums, art work, and the tomb of Napolean.
Luxembourg Garden
This very popular garden is located in the center of Paris.
Notre Dame
The church is on the mend after the devastating fire in 2019. Seeing it now, while under repair and renovation, makes one want to cry, wondering if it can ever be fully restored to its former granduer and glory.
Saint Sulpice Church
Outdone only by Notre Dame, this unsung church is equal to the task of being impressive and noteworthy in its own right.
Champs-Elysees
This world class street is to Paris what 5th Avenue is to New York or Michigan Avenue is to Chicago.
Arc de Triomphe
A Christo-inspired art exhibit was currently on display at the Arc with the monument entirely covered by this shroud.
If you would like to see pictures and trip reports from our journeys elsewhere in the world, please go to our blog's hompage by clicking here.
Comments
Post a Comment