Canada Tours

Huguenot Society of Australia
TOUR DE FRANCE
15 N IGHTS D EPARTS 12 O CTOBER 2010
Trip Dossier & Itinerary
Fully Escorted by English Speaking Guide
Tue 12 October: Arrive in Paris
Arrival at Paris CDG Airport, and make your own way to our Paris Hotel for check-in. The remainder
of the day is at leisure to relax and recover from the flight or go for a walk and acquaint yourself with
the area around our hotel. Evening at leisure, dinner on your own. Overnight at Hotel Mercure
Ronceray 3 star or similar in Paris.
PARIS
The French capital is one of the world’s truly great cities, that satisfies the desires of tourists
and manages to retain a standard of living that makes becoming a Parisian so alluring.
Despite its large size and population almost everything worth seeing is contained within
the ring road, the Boulevard Périphérique. The compact center is easily navigable on foot,
with the efficient and comprehensive Métro system always on hand to ease tired limbs. The
lifeblood River Seine splits the city neatly in two and the useful arrondissements system
neatly carves Paris into manageable chunks.
The history of Paris can be uncovered in its distinctive districts. Hilly Montmartre, with its village atmosphere,
was where the Paris Commune began in 1871; the Marais evokes medieval Paris, its winding streets a sharp
contrast to the wide, orderly Haussmann boulevards, envisaged by Napoleon III to keep the mobs at bay, these
grand avenues still dominate the city. The grands travaux (large projects) of Président Mitterrand added the
Grande Arche de la Défense, the ultra-modern Opéra de la Bastille, the impressive Institut du Monde Arabe,
and plonked a glass pyramid in the central courtyard of the Louvre.
The varied populations within Paris define the city’s atmosphere just as much as its landmarks. The French
establishment resides comfortably in the smart 16th arrondissement, while African and Eastern European
immigrants live less lavishly in areas such as up-and-coming Belleville and Goutte d’Or. The Jewish quarters
include the shabby Sentier and trendy Marais; the latter is also Paris’ gay center.
Wed 13 October: Paris – Orléans – Amboise
After breakfast, we will meet our English speaking guide (who will be our escort/guide for the next
15 days touring) at the hotel and be picked up by our driver and coach (who will also be with us for
the next 2 weeks touring in France). Leave Paris on the southern highway to Orléans. Visit of Orléans
with our guide, including Joan of Arc’s house (entrance fee included), we then continue to Amboise.
Orléans and Amboise were important sites for the Huguenot movements. Enjoy dinner in our hotel
or at a local restaurant (3 course menu, drinks not included). Overnight at Hotel Novotel Amboise 3
star or similar in/near Amboise. (B.D)
ORLÉANS & JOAN OF ARC
On the 12th of October 1428, the English lay siege to Orléans, the last fortified town on the way to Bourges, in
which the King, Charles VII, had taken refuge. In February 1429, Joan met Baudricourt, who gave her an escort
to take her to the king. Travelling mostly at night, they passed through territory controlled by the forces of the
Duke of Burgundy, reaching Orléans via the Sologne on 29th of April 1429. The same evening, Joan entered the
town to general rejoicing. On 7th of May 1429, Joan and her little army took the Fort des Tourelles, denying
access to the bridge into Orléans, and on the following day, during a Mass said between the two armies drawn
up in line of battle, the English left the town without a fight. The siege of Orléans was over, the English were
demoralised by the presence of Joan, and the French troops were filled with courage and excitement.
Orléans was a key centre of operations during the early wars of religion. A reformed church was established
there in 1557 and, in 1562, it was a Protestant base of operations for policing the Loire region.
AMBOISE IS KNOWN FOR ITS CASTLE AND CLOS-LUCE OF LEONARDO DA VINCI
Amboise Castle: The cradle of the Renaissance: The Amboise Castle, one of the first truly “royal” residences of
its kind, was built during the 15th and 16th centuries on the orders of Charles VIII, Louis XII and François I.
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Following in the footsteps of the great kings of France, you will discover a
magnificent example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Today, the
Chateau still houses an exceptional collection of furniture which has been
admirably preserved. It was at Amboise that Leonardo da Vinci lived out
his last years. Thanks to the King’s patronage, this remarkable genius was
able to devote himself to his final concerns and objects of study until his
death on 2 May 1519. His body now rests in the Chateau’s chapel of St
Hubert, an elegant 15th century building in the flamboyant Gothic style.
Dominating the city of Amboise, the gardens of the Chateau offer one of the
Amboise
most splendid views of the Loire Valley.
Clos-Lucé d’Amboise: Leonardo da Vinci passed the last four years of his life at the Clos-Lucé painting, and
pursuing the many interests which absorbed him, until his death at the house on 2nd May 1519. The building
houses an astonishing collection of models of Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions reconstructed by IBM from the
master’s drawings, using the materials of his time. The first aeroplane, the first self-propelled vehicle, the
helicopter, the parachute, the tank, the machine gun, the swing-bridge etc.
In this fine country house, you will also find the homely atmosphere of a dwelling which has been lived in and
has period furniture in all its rooms. Leonardo’s bedroom, his kitchen with the monumental fireplace, fine
renaissance rooms in brick and stone, magnificently restored by the French Beaux-Arts Department, three
charming 18th century salons resplendent with the taste and gracefulness of the age of Louis XV.
Surrounding the house is an Italian renaissance rose garden in a beautiful shady park with a stream running
through it and a small jewel-like chapel built by Charles VIII for his Queen Consort, Anne of Brittany,
renowned for her great piety.
Amboise was the site of the Edict of 1563, which allowed the legal practice of Calvinism in townships and noble
estates.
Thu 14 October: Amboise – Sancerre – Chenonceau – Amboise
Breakfast at our hotel before our visit of the Loire Valley, know for its famous castles and stunning
gardens, for which it was named ‘the Gardens of France’. We will drive alongside the Cher River to
Sancerre, passing by the towns of Vierzon and Bourges, visiting the town of Sancerre to enjoy wine
tasting at a local producer from the region. Sancerre was a rallying point for the Huguenot cause. On
the way back we stop in Chenonceaux to visit Chenonceau Castle. The evening is at leisure in
Amboise. Overnight at Hotel Novotel Amboise 3 star or similar in/near Amboise. (B)
SANCERRE
The charm of the Sancerre region strikes immediately, when coming round a curve, from its famous "piton"
peak, overlooking a landscape of valleys entirely comprised of vineyards. The city is in fact built on a hill which
conceals a labyrinth of secrets to discover in its mound of roofs, the delicate and medieval nature of its small
streets and the beauty of its old stones.
Follow the cross-roads to discover the art galleries, picturesque craft shops, or admire a house with flowers and
interior courtyard, an image engraved in stone. While strolling, it is impossible not to pass by the main
monuments of the city: the remarkable 16th century bell tower built against the ravishing Notre-Dame church,
or the Tour des Fiefs which dates back to the 14th century, the only remains of the ancient feudal chateau. From
the "piton" peak one may gain wonderful views over undulating, vine covered slopes, between which flows the
Loire river.
Sancerre is renowned for the prestige of its wines, the fruit of a long tradition which dates back to the
beginning of our era. Pline, in the 1st Century and Grégoire de Tours in 592 had already proclaimed its merits!
However, it was the Counts of Sancerre and especially the Augustin monks in Saint-Satur who developed the
culture, during the 11th century.
Today, the Sancerre region vineyards cover 2,400 hectares, extending over the medium and high portions of the
slopes especially in the area immediately surrounding the city of Sancerre. Its warm micro-climate and very
stony, warm and healthy ground encourages vine cultivation.
Following the St Bartholomew Massacres in 1572, Sancerre was a town which
supported the Protestant cause and withstood a siege in 1572-1573 during the
4th War of Religion.
CHENONCEAU CASTLE
Chenonceau Castle, a jewel of the French Renaissance, was built in 1513 by
Thomas Bohier, Controller of the Royal Treasury under François I. The
architect was in all probability a master mason named Pierre Nepveu, known
as Trinqueau, a native of Amboise. He built the castle for Thomas Bohier on
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Chenonceau Castle
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the foundations of a fortified mill, retaining the keep. The tower, known as the Tour des Marques, clearly
visible on approaching the castle, still bears the name of the family who had owned this mill from the 13th
century.
In the castle, you will visit the Guard Room, the Chapel, Diane de Poitiers’ Room, the Green Study, the Library,
the Gallery, the Hall, Francis I Room, the drawing room, the kitchens, the staircase, the hall of Catherine
Briçonet, the room of Gabrielle d’Estrées, the room of the Five Queens, the room of Catherine de Medicis, the
Vendome Room, the Chamber of Louise de Lorraine.
From the first floor balcony, there is a view of the loveliest part of the estate. To the left is Catherine’s garden,.in
the centre, and immediately in front of the castle, is the Court of Honour, and nearer still is the forecourt, which
is reached along the Great Avenue lined with plane trees. In the Court of Honour the Tour des Marques
perpetuates the name of the Marques family, who were the owners of the Seigneury of Chenonceau in the 15th
century. To the left, and extending along the side of the forecourt, is the building known as the Domes, which
formerly housed the servants. To the right, at the entrance to the garden of Diane, stands the Chancellery which
was built at the end of the 16th century.
Fri 15 October: Amboise – Fontevraud – Saumur – Amboise
Breakfast at our hotel. Today we will continue our visit of Loire Valley with our guide. We will
discover the famous Abbaye de Fontevraud as well as Saumur Castle. Saumur witnessed the
flourishing of Protestantism. The evening is at leisure in Amboise. Overnight at Hotel Novotel
Amboise 3 star or similar in/near Amboise. (B)
FONTEVRAUD ABBEY
Fontevraud Abbey (or Fontevrault Abbey) is located in the village of
Fontevraud-l'Abbaye, near Chinon, in Anjou, France. It was founded by the
itinerant reforming preacher Robert of Arbrissel, who had just created a new
order, the Order of Fontevrault. The first permanent structures were built
between 1110 and 1119.
The abbey was a double monastery, with both monks and nuns on the same
Fontevraud Abbey
site. The order became an international success. There were several
"Fontevrist" abbeys set up in England. Robert of Arbrissel declared that the leader of the order should always
be a woman and appointed Petronille de Chemillé as the first abbess. She was succeeded by Matilda d'Anjou,
the aunt of Henry II of England. This was the start of a position that attracted many rich and noble abbesses
over the years, including members of the French Bourbon royal family. Louise de Bourbon left her crest on
many of the alterations she made during her term of office. In the early years the Plantagenets were great
benefactors of the abbey and while Isabella d'Anjou was abbess, Henry II's wife Eleanor of Aquitaine became a
nun there.
During the French Revolution, the order was dissolved. The last abbess, Madame d'Antin, died in poverty in
Paris. On 17 August 1792, a Revolutionary decree ordered evacuation of all monasteries, to be completed by 1
October 1792. The abbey later became a prison from 1804 to 1963, in which year it was given to the French
Ministry of Culture. The restoration of the abbey church was finished about 1906 under the direction of the
architect Lucien Magne.
SAUMUR CASTLE
Located in the French town of Saumur, in the Maine-et-Loire département, the
Château de Saumur was originally constructed in the tenth century by Thibault
le Tricheur. It dominates the town of Saumur and overlooks the confluence of
the Loire and the Thouet Rivers. In 1026 it came into the hands of Fulk Nerra,
count of Anjou, who bequeathed it to his Plantagenet heirs. Following its
destruction in 1067, the château was rebuilt by Henry II of England in the later
Saumur Castle
twelfth century.
In the early part of the 1200s, Philip II of France made Saumur part of his royal domain. It changed hands
several times until 1589 when the Protestant King Henri IV (of France and Navarre) gave the castle to
Duplessis-Mornay.
In 1621 the castle was converted into an army barracks then into a state prison under Napoleon Bonaparte.
In the first part of the 20th century, the city of Saumur acquired the castle and began a restoration program to
house the museum of decorative arts. In line with the Saumur area's equestrian tradition and its famous "Cadre
Noir", the castle also serves as a Museum of the Horse. The castle has a dungeon, watchtower, and houses the
Musée de la Figurine-Jouet, a collection of very old toys and figurines of soldiers, kings of France, and clowns.
Most of the monuments are built in the lovely soft local stone known as tuffeau. The nearby Château de
Beaulieu which stands just 200 metres from the south bank of the Loire river. Designed by the renowned
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architect Jean Drapeau, it is recognised for its light and elegant architecture. Amongst the other Monuments
Historiques are the church of Saint-Pierre in the Place St Pierre in the centre of Saumur, and the Château de
Briacé which is located on the north side of the river
After 1589, Saumur was a principal haven for Protestants,where assemblies and teaching were to flourish.
When the Edict of Nantes was revoked in 1685, many protestants were jailed in the Castle.
Sat 16 October: Amboise – Poitiers – La Rochelle
Breakfast at hotel. Today we will discover, with our guide, the Poitou Charente region and especially
Poitiers where we will visit its famous Cathedral. Poitiers is an important site for those studing the
history of Calvinsm. The evening is at leisure in La Rochelle. Enjoy dinner at our Hotel or in a
nearby local restaurant (3-course menu, drinks not included). Overnight at Hotel Mercure Yachtman
3 star or similar in La Rochelle. (B.D)
POITIERS
Poitiers is strategically situated on the Seuil du Poitou, a shallow zone
joining the Armorican to the Central Massif and connecting the Aquitaine
Basin to the Paris Basin. The town stands on a vast promontory between
the valleys of Boivre and Clain. The old town occupies the slopes and
summit of a plateau which rises 40 metres above the level of the streams
by which it is surrounded on three sides.
Poitiers was founded as Limonum before Roman influence by the
Poitiers City
Pictones tribe, whose name it later adopted. Christianity was introduced
in the 3rd century, and the first Bishop of Poitiers, from 350 to 367, was Saint Hilarius. Fifty years later the city
had fallen into the hands of the Arian Visigoths, and became one of the principal residences of their kings.
Alaric II, one of their number, was defeated by Clovis I at Vouillé, not far from Poitiers, in 507, and the town
became a part of the Frankish dominion.
Until 1857 Poitiers contained the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre more extensive than that of Nimes; remains of
Roman baths, constructed in the 1st and demolished in the 3rd century, were laid bare in 1877; and in 1879 a
burial-place and the tombs of a number of Christian martyrs were discovered on the heights to the south-east
— the names of some of the Christians being preserved in paintings and inscriptions. Not far from these tombs
is a huge dolmen (the "Pierre Levée"), 22 feet (6.7 m) long, 16 feet (4.9 m) broad and 6 or 7 feet (2.1 m) high,
around which used to be held the great fair of St. Luke.
The first decisive Christian victory over Muslims — Battle of Tours — was fought by Charles Martel's men in
the proximity of Poitiers on October 10, 732. It has been said that "But for their defeat by Charles Martel in the
Battle of Tours the entire Western world might today be Muslim."
In the Early Middle Ages, the town was the capital of the Poitou region, governed by the Counts of Poitiers.
Eleanor of Aquitaine frequently resided in the city, which she embellished and fortified, and in 1199 entrusted
with communal rights. The Battle of Poitiers was fought at Poitiers on September 19, 1356, during the Hundred
Years' War. In 1418, the royal parliament moved from Paris to Poitiers, where it remained in exile until the
English withdrew from the capital in 1436. During this interval (1429) Joan of Arc was subjected to a formal
inquest in the town. The University of Poitiers was founded in 1431.
John Calvin had numerous converts at Poitiers, preaching many of his early sermons here in 1534, and later,
with the establishment of Protestant communities in 1557. The city had its share. of the violent proceedings
which attended the Wars of Religion. In 1569 it was defended by Guy de Daillon, Comte du Lude, against
Gaspard de Coligny, who after an unsuccessful bombardment retired from the siege at the end of seven weeks.
Poitiers is closely associated with the life of François Rabelais and with the community of Bitards. Many
Acadians or Cajuns living in North America can trace ancestry to this region as their ancestors left from here in
the 17th century. Poitiers was bombed heavily during the World War II, particularly the area round the railway
station. Among the 20th-century natives of the city was the influential French philosopher Michel Foucault.
One of the more recent famous Frenchwomen to come from the area is Florence Largeau more famous for her
rendition of the ageless French classic the Connemara.
Poitiers Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Poitiers), begun in 1162 by Henry II of England and Eleanor of
Aquitaine on the ruins of a Roman basilica, and well advanced by the end of the 12th century, is the largest
medieval monument in the French city of Poitiers. It is built in the Romanesque and Early Gothic style, the
latter predominating. The principal front, which is broad relative to its height, has unfinished side-towers 105
and 110 ft. tall, begun in the 13th century. Most of the windows of the choir and the transepts preserve their
stained glass of the 12th and 13th centuries; the end window, which is certainly the first in the order of time,
contains the figures of Henry II and Eleanor. The choir stalls, carved between 1235 and 1257, are among the
oldest in France.
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Sun 17 October: La Rochelle –Marais Poitevin – La Rochelle
After breakfast in our hotel we will, with our guide, discover the beautiful city of La Rochelle and Le
Marais Poitevin; we will also visit a Protestant Temple in La Rochelle. The evening is at leisure at La
Rochelle. Overnight at Hotel Mercure Yachtman 3 star or similar in La Rochelle. (B)
LA ROCHELLE
Founded in the 10th century on a rocky platform in the middle of
marshlands, La Rochelle, a fishing village, became a major port as
early as the 12th century. In 1199, Eleanor of Aquitaine granted a town
charter to La Rochelle, which was thus free of feudal domination. The
mayor, the aldermen and the shipowners cleverly benefited from the
quarrel between the kingdoms of France and England to increase their
privileges and wealth. The power of La Rochelle was based on the salt
and wine trade. Its independence naturally made it a meeting place
for new ideas and reform.
La Rochelle, the capital of French Protestantism, was a threat to the
policy of unification undertaken by Richelieu. In 1628, la Rochelle was
La Rochelle
starved, decimated, and reduced to a state of mercy by Louis XIII. In
spite of the heroic resistance of the Mayor, Jean Guiton, La Rochelle lost its privileges, saw its trade ruined and
its ramparts dismantled. Not until the 18th century did the sugar trade from the Varivean triangle, and the fur
trade from Canada bring back wealth to the shipowners of La Rochelle, and the town regained some of the
glory of its previous activities. In the 18th century, La Rochelle was not only the seat of an upsurge in trade, but
also of an intellectual renaissance, an artistic radiation. The Revolution and the Empire Wars, set La Rochelle to
sleep, waking up only when the deep water port of La Pallice was constructed at the dawning of the 20th
century. With its glorious past, La Rochelle, a renowned fishing port, international leisure port (3000 boats),
with its modern infrastructures, its beaches and those on the Isle of Ré accessible via the bridge, is a tourist
landmark.
The city was a key place of refuge and leadership for Protestants. It suffered sieges in 1573 and 1627, and was a
place of embarkation when Protestants fled France, especially post 1685.
THE OLD HARBOUR
As early as the 18th century, the harbour of La Rochelle was installed in this location. It is probable that, from
its origin, it was fortified. The remaining towers date from the 14th to 15th centuries. They survived the
destruction of the walls surrounding the town after the 1628 siege. On either side of the entrance, are the Tour
Saint Nicolas, the tallest, and the Tour de la Chaine; then, further on, connected to the latter by a curtain wall, is
the Tour de la Lanterne, which serves both as a beacon and for defence purposes. The Tour de la Chaine dates
from the end of the 14th century. It has come under heavy attack on several occasions. Restored a few years
ago, it now houses a model of the old town of La Rochelle. The name of the Tour de la Chaine comes from the
enormous chain which was drawn across the harbour entrance to the Tour Saint Nicolas to stop ships entering
the port. The chain still lies preserved at the foot of the tower. Dating from around the same period, the Tour
Saint Nicolas is an impressive sight and an interesting example of military architecture, and offers splendid
views over the town, the bay and the islands. The Tour de la Lanterne, also known as the Tour des Quatres
Sergents, made up part of the seaward defences. It is a squat Tower crowned with a gothic spire decorated with
ribs and crockets. Inside are several rooms, one above the other. A winding staircase leads to the covered way,
then to the outside gallery which encircles the spirt, half way up and from there you get a fine view out over
the town and the entrance to the harbour. For a long time this tower was used as a prison and inside, many
British, Spanish and Dutch prisoners have left their names engraved in the stone. As its name implies, it also
served as a lighthouse.
LE MARAIS POITEVIN
The Marais Poitevin (Poitevin Marsh), also known as Venise Verte (Green Venice) is a marsh region in Western
France, a remnant of the former Gulf of Poitou. With a surface area of 970 km2, it is the largest marsh on the
Atlantic coast and the second largest of the whole country. It is situated north of La Rochelle and south of the
Vendée region. Although the area was declared a regional park (parc naturel régional) in 1979, it lost that status
in 1996 as intensive agricultural development around the Marsh meant the unique character of the region was and still is - endangered.
Tourism includes boating in traditional barques, which is a form of punting. There are several 'embarcadères',
from which boats can be hired. The myriad canals are covered in green 'weed' (hence the nickname 'Venise
Verte') and the drained marshland is home to a varied fauna, best seen from the boats. The Marais Poitevin is
also the most important area of angelica cultivation in France.
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Mon 18 October: La Rochelle – Bergerac – Rocamadour – Cahors
Breakfast at our hotel. This morning, with our guide, we will drive through Bergerac. Bergerac was a
centre of Protestantism in the 17th Century. Visit of Rocamadour with our guide, including elevator
tickets and access to sites. Enjoy dinner at our hotel or a local restaurant (3-course menu, drinks not
included). Overnight at Hotel de France 3 star or similar in Cahors. (B.D)
BERGERAC
The old town forms a quadrangle inside a line marked by the Dordogne River,
between the streets Neuve d’Argenson and St Esprit, the old moats and the town
walls which were demolished by Richelieu. Despite the destructive effects of the
100 Years War, repeated during religious wars and by time, there are still many
interesting remains of the old town to be seen.
The Covered Market is built on the site of an old temple which was destroyed in
1682. At the north western corner of the square, one can see a house with a corner
turret and a gable-end, the only remains of damaged ramparts, where Charles IX
and his mother Catherine lodged on 8th of August 1565.
The pilgrims bound for Santago de Compostela used to stop at the St Jacques
Church, whose arched belfry and magnificent window still remain. In the choir
Bergerac
were two paintings of the Italian Renaissance School: Adoration of the Magi by Guido.
The Vieille Auberge (old inn), situated in the Rue des Fontaines, is still preserved with its two gothic arches, its
ornamental arcade and cornices from the 14th century.
The Cloître des Recollets (monastery) is now the headquarters of the Interprofessional Council for Bergerac
which has restored the buildings very successfully. The monastery is situated between the river and De Cayla
Square which provides the only entrance. On the right is the chapel which has become the Protestant church.
The walls, built of alternating stone and brick, have regained their original colours and in the courtyard stands
a cloister combining work from the 17th and 18th centuries with the monastery over in the corner.
The Maison Peyrarède faces the Rue de l’Ancien Pont. It is an interesting 15th century building extensively
altered in 1603 by Mathurin Peyrarède and characterised by an elegant turret and cold arch supporting the two
upper storeys. Louis 13th lodged in the house in 1621. It contains a Tobacco Museum unique in France with
many interesting exhibits and several paintings by old masters, and also an Historical Urban’s Museum.
In the 17th century, over 6000 Protestants lived in the town and, despite persecution and church destruction,
continued to worship. Their spiritual resistance was renowned.
ROCAMADOUR - BREATHTAKING CITY, SACRED CITY
Hanging on the edge of a desolate gorge, the medieval city of Rocamadour
was carved in the cliff by human faith. On your arrival at L’Hospitalet, on the
plateau above the medieval city, you will discover, as did the pilgrims of the
thirteenth century, the breathtaking valley and the mystical city below,
nature and monument indistinguishable.
Built against the cliff, Rocamadour appears to be a challenge to gravity - as a
Rocamadour
cascade of roofs and rocks miraculously resting on a vertical line. Between
the castle which crowns the city and the little river Alzou peacefully winding along the bottom of the valley, a
one hundred metre drop shelters the sanctuaries and the houses.
On the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, Rocamadour was for centuries one of the most celebrated
pilgrimages of the Christian world and continues today, still attracting numerous faithful who come to pray to
the black Virgin. The great staircase leads the visitor to the courtyard of the religious city surrounded by seven
churches and chapels.
SAINT-AMADOUR
“In the year of the Incarnation 1166, an inhabitant of the country, being on his deathbed, asked his family,
undoubtedly through divine inspiration, to bury his body at the entrance to the oratory. When the ground was
dug, the body of Amadour was found, quite whole; it was placed in the church, near the altar and is shown
thus, in its integral form, to the pilgrims.” This is what Robert de Torigny (Abbot of Mont Saint Michel) relates
in his chronicle about the pilgrimage of Henry II King of England. Nothing in the documents makes it possible
to identify the body, however... It was commonly believed that the body of Amadour rested there, but no one
knew exactly where.
Local tradition, this remarkable unrecorded history handed down from the earliest of times, identifies
Amadour as Zacchaeus of the gospels... Zacchaeus, a Jew from Jericho, lived at the time of Christ. The texts of
the gospels tell us that, being short, he climbed a maple tree better be able to see Christ; seeing his faith, Jesus
called him and invited him to come and stay with Him. After that visit, converted and repentant, Zacchaeus
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distributed half of his goods to the poor and promised to return fourfold what he might have acquired unjustly.
It should be said that he was head of the Publicans, that is, tax collector of Jericho. According to one legend,
Zacchaeus was the servant of the virgin Mary. Advised by her, he went to Gaul and there led the life of a hermit
for many years. Another legend has him married to Sainte Veronica... They left together and their vessel,
pushed by the wind - a manifestation of divine will - landed at the port of Soulac, in the Gironde. After the
death of Veronica, he lived a solitary life in the caves of Rocamadour.
There is no doubt that the state of preservation of the body of Amadour made a great impression... nearly 400
years after the discovery of the corpse, the body was still intact. A parishioner over 100 years old, buried at
Rocamadour in 1632, related having seen with her own eyes, the glorious body of Saint-Amadour “completely
whole, of skin and bones like the day he died”, and she remembered well the pillage of 1562 : “When the
Huguenots made a big fire on the paving stones of the parish church of Saint Amadour, wanting to burn the
body, but God prevented it, they tore the body to pieces and took the silver reliquary... “.
To the minds of the people of the time, this faithful servant of the Virgin Mary was in this way awaiting
resurrection. So everyone turned to the worker of so many miracles: the Black Madonna.
THE BLACK VIRGIN:
How can it be explained that the black colour of the Virgin of Rocamadour was not pointed out before the 17th
century? Is it the actual appearance of the Madonna which attracted such crowds of pilgrims for several
centuries? Was her austere look offset by precious ornaments? And was her face, with its sober features and
closed eyes, given animation by some polychromatic processes? Numerous Romanesque virgins were painted
in bright colours and covered with jewels; was it the same with the Virgin of Rocamadour? What should be
thought of the traces of polychromy still visible? Unfortunately, lack of archives leaves all these questions
unanswered. Nevertheless, Notre Dame de Rocamadour has come down to us today, the noble features and
slight smile on her lips giving the whole face a reassuring gentleness. How many eyes have turned to her, how
many voices have entreated her, how many pilgrims have taken leave again, confident, relieved or cured!
Tue 19 October: Cahors – Montauban – Moissac – Toulouse
Breakfast at our hotel. We will visit Montauban with our guide. Then enjoy a guided visit of Cloister
of Abbaye de Moissac (entrance fees included). The evening is at leisure in Toulouse. Overnight at
Hotel Holiday Inn Centre 3 star or similar in Toulouse. (B)
MONTAUBAN
(Montalban in Occitan) is a town and commune of southwestern France, préfecture
(capital) of the Tarn-et-Garonne département, 31 miles (50 km) north of Toulouse.
With the exception of Mont-de-Marsan, Montauban is the oldest of the bastides of
southern France. Its foundation dates from 1144 when Alphonse Jourdain, Count of
Toulouse, granted it a liberal charter. The inhabitants were drawn chiefly from
Montauriol, a village which had grown up around the neighbouring monastery of St
Théodard.
In the 13th century the town suffered much from the ravages of the Albigensians
Cahors
and from the Inquisition, but by 1317 it had recovered sufficiently to be chosen by
John XXII as the head of a diocese of which the basilica of St Théodard became the cathedral.
In 1360, at the Treaty of Brétigny, it was ceded to the English; they were expelled by the inhabitants in 1414. In
1560 the bishops and magistrates embraced Protestantism, expelled the monks, and demolished the cathedral.
Ten years later it became one of the four Huguenot strongholds under the Peace of Saint-Germain, and formed a
small independent republic. It was the headquarters of the Huguenot rebellion of 1621, and successfully
withstood an 86-day siege by Louis XIII. It did not submit to royal authority until after the fall of La Rochelle in
1629, when its fortifications were destroyed by Cardinal Richelieu. The Protestants again suffered persecution
after the repeal of the Edict of Nantes in 1685.
During World War II, Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa was briefly hidden in a secret vault behind a wine cellar
at Montauban.
MOISSAC
Moissac is a town and commune of the Tarn-et-Garonne département, in southwestern France. It is on the
ancient pilgrimage route of Santiago de Compostela, and is famous world-wide mostly for the artistic heritage
handed down by the ancient Saint Peter's Abbey.
Abbey Saint-Pierre in Moissac has a 12th century tympanum, portico statues (including the famous trumeau
figure of the Prophet Jeremiah) and cloister (which has a later 15th century roof structure). There is also a Centre
of Romanesque Art with important documents on medieval sculpture, illumination and wall-paintings. The
Abbey church and cloister are listed among the World Heritage Sites of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela
in France.
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According to legend, the abbey was founded by Clovis (the Frankish
king), but from historical information it was founded by Saint Didier,
bishop of Cahors in the middle of the 7th century. The establishment
of the monastery was difficult because of raids by the Moors and the
Norsemen. The 11th and 12th centuries witnessed a first golden age,
the result of Moissac being affiliated to the Burgundy abbey of Cluny
and its accepting the famous Reformation, under the guidance of
Durand de Bredons who was both the Abbot of Moissac and the
Bishop of Toulouse. This outstanding era witnessed the major abbots
Toulouse at night
Dom Hunaud de Gavarret, and Dom Ansquitil, who had the doorway
and tympanum built. In the 13th century, Raymond de Montpezat and then Bertrand de Montaigut, abbots and
builders, ruled the abbey. Aymeric de Peyrac, writing his Chronicle in the 15th century in the castle of Saint
Nicolas de la Grave reveals us those events.
The 15th century saw a new golden age with abbots Pierre and Antoine de Caraman, whose building
programme included in particular the Gothic part of the abbey church. The 1626 secularization of the abbey
caused the Benedictine monks to leave the cloister which had been a centre of Benedictine life for nearly 1000
years. They were replaced by Augustinian canons, under commendatory abbots including well-known
cardinals such as Mazarin and de Brienne. In 1793, the French Revolution put an end to monastic life in
Moissac. In the middle of the 19th century, the laying of a railway track threatened the cloister but it was saved
(though the refectory was demolished to facilitate the railway cutting) and listed as a historic monument. Even
though the outlying buildings have suffered a lot and the appearance of the abbey has changed, this inheritance
is nowadays the object of intense care as the south-west portico tympanum and trumeau statue of the Prophet
Jeremiah, renowned amongst the greatest works of the European Romanesque, and the oldest and one of the
most beautiful cloisters in France, can still be admired
Wed 20 October : Toulouse – Castres – Vigan – Montpellier
Breakfast at our hotel. Visit of Castres, a town resonating with protestant history, with our guide and
en route a guided visit of Musée Cévenol in Vigan (entrance fees included) – The Musée Cévenol
shows the life in the Cévennes during the past centuries. Pass by the Cirque de Navacelles (natural
site) on the way to Montpellier. The evening is at leisure in Montpellier - Overnight at Hotel Mercure
3 star or similar in Montpellier. (B)
CASTRES
The name of the town comes from Latin castrum, and means "fortified place". Castres grew up round the
Benedictine Abbey of Saint Benoît, which is believed to have been founded in AD 647, possibly on the site of an
old Roman fort (castrum). Castres became an important stop on the international pilgrimage routes to Santiago
de Compostela in Spain because its abbey-church, built in the 9th century, was keeping the relics of Saint
Vincent, the renowned martyr of Spain.
During the Albigensian Crusade it surrendered of its own accord to Simon de Montfort, and thus entered into
the kingdom of France in 1229. In 1317, Pope John XXII established the bishopric of Castres. In 1356, the town of
Castres was raised to a countship by King John II of France. However, the town greatly suffered from the Black
Plague in 1347-1348, then from the Black Prince of England and the Free Companies (bands of lawless
mercenaries) who laid waste the country during the Hundred Years' War. Around 1560, the majority of the
population of Castres converted to Protestantism. In the wars of the latter part of the 16th century the
inhabitants sided with the Protestant party, fortified the town, and established an independent republic. Castres
was one of the largest Protestant strongholds in southern France. Henry of Navarre, leader of the Protestant
party, who later became King Henry IV of France, stayed in Castres in 1585. The Protestants of Castres were
brought to terms, however, by King Louis XIII in 1629, and Richelieu came himself to Castres to have its
fortifications dismantled. Nonetheless, after these religious wars, the town, now in peace, enjoyed a period of
rapid expansion. Castres was turned by the Catholic church into an active center of Counter-Reformation, with
the establishments of several convents in town, and the building of a renowned bishop's palace by Mgr.
Tubœuf,. A new cathedral was also built, after the destructions of the religious wars. Perhaps even more
important, Castres was made the seat of the Chambre de l'Édit of the Parliament of Toulouse, a court of justice
detached from the Parliament of Toulouse and in charge of dealing with the cases involving the Protestants of
Languedoc, a measure of protection granted to them by the Edict of Nantes. This court attracted lots of business
to Castres. In 1665, there were 7,000 inhabitants in Castres, 4,000 of whom were Catholic, and 3,000 Protestant.
The Revocation of the Edict of Nantes soon followed, and Castres suffered a lot when a great number of
Protestants chose to go into exile. Then came the plague of 1720-1721 and the fire of 1724. Last but not least,
Castres lost its liberal charter in 1758. In the 1760s, a few years after the famous Calas Affair in Toulouse,
Castres made the headlines nationwide: Pierre-Paul Sirven and his wife, both Protestants, were wrongly
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accused of having murdered their daughter in order to prevent her from
converting to Catholicism. Tried and sentenced to death in absentia on March 29,
1764, they were defended by Voltaire, and eventually exonerated in 1771.
The outbreak of the French Revolution was generally welcomed in Castres,
particularly among the local Protestant merchants and entrepreneurs, but the
majority of the population remained moderate during the whole period. In 1793
for instance, Protestant pastor Alba La Source, Castres' representative at the
Convention in Paris, opposed the deportation of "non-juror" Catholic priests to
French Guiana, where death in the horrid jungle was certain. "Non-juror" priests
Montpellier
were by far the majority in the region of Castres. Accused of being a moderate, Alba La Source was guillotined
in October 1793. Suspected of being lukewarm toward the revolution, Castres was duly chastised. The bishopric
which had been established by Pope John XXII in 1317 was abolished, Castres later becoming part of the
bishopric of Albi.
LE VIGAN
The town marks the furthest point of Cevennes Protestantism. In the 17th century, it was almost entirely
Protestant. Its surrounding valley, Arre, remained Protestant despite the Catholic reconquest before and after
the 1685 Edict.
The Cirque de Navacelles is large circular landform, located towards the southern edge of the Massif Central
mountain range, near Saint-Maurice-Navacelles and Blandas between the Hérault département and the Gard
département.
The Cirque is very isolated, with only a few small village communities living in the surrounding area. The
nearest notable settlement is Millau, a two hour drive away. Recently, the Cirque has seen increased visitor
numbers, due to the recent completion of the A75 motorway from Clermont-Ferrand to Pezenas, providing a
new non-stop motorway connection between Paris and Mediterranean. This allows easier transport to the area.
Furthermore, the famous bridge, the Viaduc de Millau (which bypasses the town that gives it its name) brings
even more visitors to the area, many of whom wish to "venture" further into the countryside.
Thu 21 October: Montpellier – Ganges – Cévennes – Mialet – Montpellier
After breakfast at our hotel we will pass by the Parc des Cévennes, then enjoy a guided visit of the
Musée du Desert (entrance fees included) which shows a history of the Camisard and the Huguenots
in Cévennes. Then to Le Mialet and a guided visit of the Grotte des Demoiselles (entrance fees
included). The evening is at leisure in Montpellier – Dinner at our hotel or a local nearby restaurant
(3-course menu, drinks not included). Overnight at Hotel Mercure 3 star
or similar in Montpellier. (B.D)
THE CÉVENNES NATIONAL PARK
French: Parc National des Cévennes is a national park, located in southern
France, in the mountainous area of Cévennes.The park was created in 1970. Its
administrative seat is located in Florac at Florac Castle. The park is mainly
located in the départements of Lozère and Gard, and covers some parts of
Ardèche and Aveyron. The Aven Armand cave is located in the park.
Park des Cevennes
The Cévennes area was a bastion of Protestantism. In the heart of a typical
hamlet in the Cévennes, the alleyways lead to the birthplace and house of Camisard leader, Rolland. Through
artifacts and authentic documents, the DESERT MUSEUM brings to life the Huguenot past and the history of
the Camisards. The museum, founded in 1910, was built around the house of Rolland, a significant Camisard
leader, and features displays of 17th and 18th century Protestant history in the Cévennes. It includes a
chronology of events and people as well as special features of the culture and artefacts of the period.
GROTTE DES DEMOISELLES
Many legends and stories have been linked with the cave, the existence of which has been common knowledge
in the Languedoc region since time immemorial. The best known legend tells of a shepherd looking for a lost
lamb who wandered into the swallow hole that marked the entrance to the cave. He heard the lamb but could
not see it, and so he continued deeper and deeper into the cave, until he reached the chamber now known as the
cathédrale (cathedral). With only a torch for light, he slipped and fell to the bottom of the chamber (a 60-metre
plunge between stalactites and stalagmites). Knocked senseless by the shock, he noticed—just before passing
out—a group of young ladies dancing and singing around him. When he woke up, he was back on the surface
with his lamb. The modern name of the cave, Grotte des Demoiselles (“maidens' grotto”) reflects this legend;
previously it had been known as the Grotte des Fées (“fairies' grotto”).
At various times in history the cave has also served as a hiding place and refuge.
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In 1889, more serious exploration of the cave was undertaken by the renowned speleologist Édouard-Alfred
Martel. At the time, visiting the cave was quite perilous, but in 1931 a funicular, concrete stairs and walkways
with sturdy railings and extensive electric lighting were installed to make it accessible to the general public; and
since then it has been a popular regional tourist attraction..
Fri 22 October: Montpellier – Sète – Nîmes
Breakfast at your hotel. Today we will discover Montpellier and Sète with our escort/guide.
Montpellier was a crucial city for the advance of protestant causes. Dinner at Hotel or local restaurant
nearby (3-course menu, drinks not included). Overnight at Hotel Novotel 3 star or similar in Nîmes.
(B.D)
MONTPELLIER
(Occitan Montpelhièr) is a city in the south of France. It is the capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon region, as
well as the Hérault department. The city is situated on hilly ground 10 km (6 miles) inland from the
Mediterranean coast on the River Lez. The name of the city, originally Monspessulanus, is said to have stood for
mont pelé (the naked hill, because the vegetation was poor), or le mont de la colline (the mount of the hill).
The Reformed Church was set up here in 1560. It has always been a stronghold for Protestant followers. Its
churches were destroyed during Catholic conquests. About 33 pastors were put to death here between 1690 and
1754. Through its universities and libraries, the town has been a leader in the study of Protestant theology.
SÈTE
(Seta in Occitan) is a commune in the Hérault department in LanguedocRoussillon in southern France. Known as the ‘Venice of Languedoc’, it is a
major fishing and commercial port and a sea-side resort on the
Mediterranean Sea. The initial village started growing with the completion
of the Canal du Midi (1681). It was called Cette until 1927. Built upon and
around Mont St Clair, Sète is situated on the south-eastern hub of the Bassin
de Thau, an enclosed salt water lake used primarily for oyster and mussel
fields. To its other side lies the Mediterranean.
Sète
Sat 23 October: Nîmes – Arles - Alès – Nîmes
Breakfast at our hotel. Visit of Nîmes, Alès and Arles with our guide, including entrance fees to
Roman Arenas of Nîmes and entrance fees to Roman Theatre in Arles. Also, visit the Grand
Protestant Temple in Nîmes. Overnight at Hotel Novotel 3 star or similar in Nîmes. (B)
NÎMES:
The name of the town goes back to the Roman Colonia Nemausensis part of
the Province of Narbonne and where Roman civilisation was introduced
after Caesar’s conquest of Gaul. The oppidum previously built by the
Volcaz Arecomici became a town of Roman design. Nîme, Lyon and
Narbonne were among the largest towns in Roman Gaul during the reign of
Augustus.
Medieval Nîmes: The wars of religion inflicted major damage on the city.
The city shrank, huddled around Saint-Castor Cathedral and the Roman
Nîmes
arena, which was used as a fortress and a refuge for the population in case
of war. The first renaissance of Nimes was at the end of the Wars of Religion thanks to the textile industry
which became established in the 17th century. The town grew during this period, the outlying areas expanded
and numerous public and private buildings bear witness to the prosperity of the period.
Recent and Modern Nîmes: The demolition of the ramparts at the end of the 18th century and the arrival of the
railway a hundred years later gave the city its present shape. The boulevards which run around the historical
centre of the city replace the fosses (ditches) which were part of the fortifications. The siting of the station and
avenue Feuchères determined the subsequent southward growth of Nîmes. Today it is a thriving modern town.
Nîmes was a source of Protestant activism. It outlawed Catholic worship in 1562. In 1566, the Temple of La
Calade was built but later destroyed in 1685. It was the centre of Huguenot military resistance during the wars
and a political centre for Protestant rallying. After 1685, many massacres of Protestants occurred there.
Monuments: Amphitheatre: The Roman arena (1st century AD), now used for bullfights, shows and concerts,
gives us a strong image of a Roman public that loved elaborate and exciting shows.
Maison Carrée: The Square House draws its apparently curious name from the word carré, meaning rectangular
in Old French. This beautifully proportioned temple dedicated to Augustus’ grandsons was in the forum, the
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administrative and business centre of the Roman town, Castellum: the Castellum (1st century AD) distributed
water to the various parts of the town. The water came from Eure spring near Uzès and was conveyed by an
aqueduct. Porte Auguste: Augustus Gate was one of the gates in the roman ramparts. The military stone
marked the beginning of the Domitian Way between Nimes and Beaucaire.
Tour Magne: This was the largest of the towers in the Roman ramparts around Nîmes.
Jardins de la Fontaine: The gardens were laid out in 1745 by Jacques-Philippe Mareschal, who was Louis XV’s
Engineer and Director of Fortifications in the Province of Languedoc.
ARLES
Arles is the largest city in France with an area of 758km2. It is encircled by an
environment of exceptional beauty: the banks of the Rhône river, the arid
plains of Crau, the Alpilles and the untamed land of Camargue. Once a
metropolis of Roman Gaul, Arles then became a symbol of ardent
Christianity as can be seen through the arena, the Alyscamps burial grounds,
Arles
the amphitheatre and the Roman baths of Constantin.
Arles is now the gateway to Camargue, land of the Gypsies and meeting place of the Camargue cowboys,
Today the ferias or bull runs and bull fights are held in this very same arena (12,000 seats) that was the scene of
the Roman games in the first century!
City of festivals, art, and culture, Arles has never stopped attracting artists. Van Gogh stayed here with his
friend Gauguin. Picasso, a lover of bull fights, was inspired by them to do two paintings and 57 drawings. Arles
is also a centre of photography. Each summer the Rencontres Internationales de la Photographie brings many
visitors.
The Roman monuments of Arles, registered with Unesco are outstanding, The houses and private mansions of
the 16th and 17th centuries, the cloister of St. Trophime, the Hôtel de Ville, and the shaded terraces of the Place
des Lices are also all well worth a tour.
The Roman Theatre, which dates from the period of Augustus, has a diameter of 102 m, the seating stretches to
the Tour de Roland and it includes the nearby arches. This allows a good idea of the outer dimensions of the
building. Nowadays, it is used for the festival of Arles (June, July) and the International Photography Festival.
ALÈS
Alès is a commune in southern France, in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. It is one of the sub-prefectures of
the Gard department. It was formerly known as Alais. In the 16th century Alès was an important Huguenot
centre.
In 1629 the town was taken by Louis XIII, and by the Peace of Alais the Huguenots gave up their right to places
de sûreté (garrison towns) and other privileges. A bishopric was established there in 1694 but suppressed in
1790.
Sun 24 October: Nîmes – Poët-Laval – Lyon
Breakfast at the hotel. This morning we will have a guided visit of Museum of Protestantism in
Poët-Laval (entrance fees included). Dinner at our hotel or local nearby restaurant (3-course menu,
drinks not included). Overnight at Grand Hotel des Terreaux 3 star or similar in Lyon. (B.D)
POËT LAVAL
In the heart of this picturesque medieval village, the Dauphiné Reformation
Museum was founded partly in a 14th century Manor House. In the 17th century
the house became a Reformed Church and, at the time of the "Revocation", it was
one of two churches in the country which were not eradicated. The Museum will
enable you to discover the history of the Dauphiné Reformation: its wide
influence, the setting up of the first local churches, the religious wars between
Roman-Catholics and Protestants and the 1598 Edict of Nantes.
Poët-Laval
Mon 25 October: Lyon – Cluny – Wineroad – Beaune
Breakfast at our hotel. A guided visit of Abbaye de Cluny (entrance fees included), then visit a local
wine producer on Burgundy wine-road with tasting. After that visit of Beaune with our guide.
Overnight at Hotel Athanor 3 star or similar in Beaune. (B)
ABBEY OF CLUNY
The Abbey of Cluny (or Cluni, or Clugny) was founded in AD 910 by William I, Count of Auvergne, who
installed Abbot Berno and placed the abbey under the immediate authority of Pope Sergius III. The Abbey and
its constellation of dependencies soon came to exemplify the kind of religious life that was at the heart of 11th
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century piety. The town of Cluny, in the modern-day department of Saône-et-Loire in the region of Bourgogne,
in east-central France, near Mâcon, grew round the former abbey, founded in a forested hunting reserve.
The Benedictine order was a keystone to the stability that European society achieved in the 11th century, and
partly owing to the stricter adherence to a reformed Benedictine rule, Cluny became the acknowledged leader
of western monasticism from the later 10th century. A sequence of highly competent abbots of Cluny were
statesmen on an international stage. The monastery of Cluny itself became the grandest, most prestigious and
best endowed monastic institution in Europe. The height of Cluniac influence was from the second half of the
10th century through the early 12th. The Abbey was sacked and mostly destroyed in 1790 by a mob of
revolutionaries. Only a small part of the original remains.
The Hotel de Cluny in Paris dates from around 1334, and was formerly the town house of the abbots of Cluny.
It was made into a public museum in 1833, but apart from the name it no longer possesses anything originally
connected with the abbey.
BEAUNE
In Beaune you will find a town steeped even more deeply in the Burgundy
wine tradition. Once the region’s main town, it is now Burgundy’s wine
capital. Its most famous building, l’Hotel Dieu, an old hospice built in 1443 for
the sick and needy, is famous for its annual wine auction and the royal
honeycombs of coloured tiles on its roofs. The heavy oak doors of its cellars,
when drawn open, reveal a still dark world beneath the historic streets of this
colourful city. Here, laid down sometimes for decades at a time, the bottles of
the grands crus slumber in their racks gathering dust and maturity.
Beaune
Hôtel-Dieu : This 15th century masterpiece of gothic art, with its coloured glazed roofs, is one of the crowning
glories of France. In act of undeniable piety, Nicolas Rolin Chancellor of the Duke of Burgundy and his wife
Guigone de Salins founded the hospital in 1443 to provide to the sick and destitute - a role it has filled ever
since. This exceptionally well preserved monument is a rare example of civilian architecture in the Middle Ages.
In 1971 the medical function was transferred to more modern buildings, leaving the visitor free to discover the
Grande Salle des Pauvres, the lavishly decorated Paupers’ Ward leading on to the Flamboyant Gothic chapel.
The present-day museum gives an excellent idea of the working of a hospital in the 15th century. The crowning
glory is Roger van der Weyden’s famous polyptych of “The Last Judgement”, dating back to the time when the
hospital was erected. Over the centuries the Hospital has acquired, through bequests and donations, some 57
hectares (143 acres) of valuable vineyards enabling it to host the world’s most famous wine auction on the third
Sunday of November each year.
Tue 26 October: Beaune – Dijon – Vézelay – Beaune
Breakfast at our hotel. Visit of Dijon and Vézelay with our guide, including visit of Basilica in
Vézelay. Overnight at Hotel Athanor 3 star or similar in Beaune. (B)
DIJON
Dijon has been the capital of Burgundy since ancient times. Here you can visit
the Duke’s palace and illustrious noble houses, be struck by the richness of one
of France’s very best fine arts museums, stroll in the spacious streets where the
pedestrian reigns over the motor car, explore ancient alleys, squeezed between
well-restored old houses with half-timbered fronts - and buy what was first
grown in the vineyards - mustard. As for eating and drinking, in Dijon you are
spoiled for choice.
Dijon
From Roman ways to modern highways, Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, has always been an important junction
between the north and the south of Europe. As you stroll along the pedestrian streets, lined with private
mansions, churches, parks and gardens, you will discover an amazing, historical heritage, witness of a
prestigious past. The town is perfectly harmonious with its varied treasures and styles. Dijon is a lively capital
being both a large university town with more than 25,000 students and a large shopping centre. Its gastronomy
is of international repute.
Dijon gradually built up around its roman wall. In the 14th and 15th centuries, it became the amazing capital of
the Great Dukes of the West. The splendour of their court attracted many artists who came from every part of
the Duchy and left exceptional works of art. Dijon is endowed with a great number of buildings. There is a
harmonious balance between the diversified styles and the architectural ornaments: churches, mansions, halftimbered houses, carved stone, glazed tiles. You can stroll in the picturesque and lively pedestrian streets, you
can walk in the famous Burgundian vineyard... Dijon also offers refined cuisine. Famous chefs and
gastronomical specialities such as mustard, “pain d’épice “, black currant liqueur and most famous of all its
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“kir” aperitif, will enhance its long established reputation of hospitality.
Protetstant assemblies started in 1561 in Dijon, but were never to take foothold in a largely Catholic Burgundy.
Protestant groups were heavily reduced through arrests and abjuration, especially after 1572. From 1830, new
Protestant assemblies were able to commence following Napoleon’s liberalism.
VÉZELAY
Even before UNESCO listed it amongst the World Heritage, this village was known
throughout the world. Close to a million visitors, believers and non-believers, pilgrims
and the curious, pass through Vézelay each year. Towering upwards, away from the
surrounding land, as if so ordained by the sky, it is the inspired hill, the Eternal hill,
where the breath of the spirit has been felt since the most ancient of times.
A Christian shrine in the Middle Ages, Vézelay owes its prosperity to the relics of Saint
Mary Magdalen which are preserved in her church. Pilgrims flocked to it, sales
flourished, vineyards grew, major fairs were held here and the town then occupied the
Vézelay
entire surface of the hill. Vézelay, at its apogee, became one of the great pilgrimages of
the age and the starting point of one of the four routes leading to Santiago de Compostela. In 1146: Saint
Bernard preached the second crusade. Philip Augustus and Richard the Lion Heart met here before embarking
on the Third Crusade in 1190. The first Franciscan convent in France was established here in 1217.
The Basilica Sainte Madeleine was originally a simple Benedictine monastery founded in the 9th century by
Girard de Roussillon. Because of the relics it sheltered, Vézelay Abbey became a major shrine in the Middle
Ages. However, the 13th century saw Vezelay’s reputation fade. Pilgrims abandoned the hill and the abbey,
looted, deconsecrated and burnt during the Revolution was nothing more than a ruin when Viollet Le Duc
began restoring it in 1840.
In 1860, the Magdalen was saved. The abbey church, the village, the site are today the finest in France. On either
side of the long street climbing up to the church square are alleys, medieval houses, porches, grilles, vaulted
cellars, taking the visitor, a pilgrim despite himself, on a voyage through time, to the days of Philip Augustus,
Richard Lionheart, Saint Louis, which also paying respect to the house where Romain Rolland, apostle of
universal peace, spent the last years of his life.
Vézelay is also famous for being the birthplace of Theodore de Beze (1519-1605), who became Calvin’s “righthand man”.
Wed 27 October: Beaune – Fontenay – Paris CDG airport
Breakfast at at our hotel. Before ending the tour at the airport we will have a 1 hour guided visit of
the Abbaye de Fontenay (entrance fees included). End of touring at Paris CDG airport at latest 18h00.
ABBEY OF FONTENAY
The Abbey of Fontenay is a former Cistercian abbey located in the commune
of Montbard, in the department of Côte-d'Or.
It was founded by Saint Bernard of Clairvaux in 1118, only a few years after
he left Cîteaux Abbey to found Clairvaux Abbey. Located in a small forested
valley 60 kilometres northwest of Dijon, it achieved great prosperity in the
twelfth and thirteenth centuries. Fontenay enjoyed the protection of the Kings
Abbey of Fontenay
of France but was plundered in the Hundred Years’ War and the Wars of
Religion. Later, its fortunes declined, and the refectory was demolished by the monks in 1745. The abbey was
closed in the French Revolution, and became a paper mill until 1902, owned for most of its period of operation
by the Montgolfier family.
The abbey was bought by Édouard Aynard in 1905 and restored. Apart from the demolished refectory, it retains
almost all of its original buildings: church, dormitory, cloister, chapter house, caldarium or "heating room",
dovecote and forge, all built in Romanesque style, with later abbot's lodgings and infirmary. Today the abbey
buildings are set in modern manicured parterres of lawn and gravel. It is one of the oldest and most complete
Cistercian abbeys in Europe, and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.
Huguenot Society
of Australia
P.O. Box 184 Newtown NSW 2042
[email protected]
Lic No 2TA5533 ABN 77 083 577 164
Call to book or for information Ph: (02) 9569 1197
Fax: (02) 9560 0938 • E: [email protected]
PO Box 92 Westgate NSW 2048 www.alburykenttravel.com.au
Huguenot Society of Australia Tour de France by Albury Kent Travel
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