Rouen, France

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This middle ages city is well preserved and so pretty. It is here where St. Joan of Arc was sold to the British who tortured her as a witch and burned her at the stake. It seems that no one spoke up on her behalf. The church built in her memory is an incredible piece of very modern architecture in the town of gothic churches, The cathedral of Notre Dame (so frequently painted by Monet) dominates the city scape. Monet painted it again and again, working with it as much for "light study" as for subject matter. Today, we opted out of the optional tour to a Caldavos apple orchard and cider farm lunch. It's nice to balance really good guided tours with some time to explore on our own. Thankful for comfy shoes, good maps and backpacks.

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Photos

Notre Dame Rouen Steel Tower
The steel tower on this cathedral is constructed like the Eiffle Tower - it was quite controversial when first constructed.

Butter Tower
The Church imposed a penitential dispensation during lent (for a fee). It was levied on parishioners of Rouen who wanted to indulge in butter during lent. The "donation" paid for the "butter tower" on the cathedral.

Ancient Statue of St. Thomas
These had been on the exterior of the Cathedral; which was partly bombed during WWII.

Crooked House
Those of you who have ever done carpentry will appreciate this - crooked house - straight windows - crooked drapes. It's a B&B in Rouen.

J&W Lunch Rouen
We opted out of the Optional Tour to a Cider Farm and had lunch in this charming village.

Roof Line St. Joan of Arc Church
This makes quite a contemporary statement in a medieval village; but then, so did Joan of Arc.

Comments

[Jayne]

Memories!
Brought back memories of trips to Paris with Carl. Oh my! Love your Blogs - thanks for sharing. Jayne

[Silver Back Cuda]

Dear Jayne - what wonderful memories you must have...but life goes on - n'est pas?