Time for another post as I’m falling behind again. We’re currently in Sarlat la Caneda where we’ll be for a couple of weeks just soaking up the area and atmosphere, but more on that later. For now, I’ll bring you up to date on the journey here.
To break the journey from Normandy, we stopped for a day in the city of Bourges with a side trip to the Abbaye l’Epau on the way. Now who knew that Richard I (the Lionheart) had a wife or knew much about her. Her name was Berengaria of Navarre and she had to follow him on the Third Crusade in order to get married. She never set foot in England and never remarried after his death attempting to reclaim his French holdings. She settled in Le Mans and founded the Abbaye l’Epau where her tomb resides. The abbey is no longer active but has been restored and is used as a function or conference center.
In Bourges, we stayed in a renovated old mansion in the very heart of the old city. Bourges is not well known but is a real gem. Its cathedral is one of 5 UNESCO listed cathedrals in France and one of the most impressive in my mind. Considered one of the best examples of early French Gothic design, it’s 5 naves and 5 distinct levels create an unusually open interior for the time allowing for some truly magnificent stained glass windows. Of course I had to climb the tower. A 396 step spiral staircase and I had it all to myself. It was definitely worth it with great views of the city and countryside.
The other main attraction in Bourges is the Palais Jacques Coeur. Jacques Coeur was one of France’s richest businessmen with trading interests throughout the Mediterranean. He was an advisor to Charles VII and built one of the largest ‘private’ medieval palaces in his home town. As was so common in those situations, the King envied his wealth and he was accused of some trumped up charges so his assets could be impounded! His palace reflects his great wealth in the quality of its detailing and craftsmanship.
Coming soon, the Dordogne. If you’d like, you can read our posts from when we were here last year for additional details!
Beautiful pictures!