Had a lovely day out earlier in the week with friends taking a trip to Angouleme to purchase art supplies, something that is not readily available in rural France! Needless to say there were many “must haves” purchased and I now have enough goodies to keep me and a small army going for a few months 😜
After shopping the day was spent sightseeing in Angouleme, around the old quarter before relaxing on the steps in front of the Hotel de Ville enjoying a pizza picnic (the most beautiful Quattro Formaggio I’ve ever tasted!)
Masks were worn, only removed for eating and the city was certainly not overcrowded, so at present our side of the country is coping without further lockdowns although I think a total of 20 other departments have restrictions for the next 4 weeks at least.
The facade is decorated with more than 70 sculptures including scenes of everyday life. In the Romanesque style this cathedral is considered a real jewel and is classified as an historical monument.
The Chateau d’Angouleme was a castle in the town and the first fortress on this site was built at the end of the Roman Empire. From the 10th to the 13th century the Counts of Angouleme strengthened the fortifications of the town and in 1840 the town bought the castle to house the Town Hall! The present building includes the keep built in the 13th century and the round tower preserved since the 15th century. I know I’m sounding like a guide book but these old buildings are just beautiful 💕
Angouleme stands as the capital of comics and visual arts with an annual International Comics Festival it also has a comics museum, the European School of Visual Arts which offers a master’s degree in comics, the animation school and the National video games school!
Will have to make a return trip once festivals and museums reopen.
Some great architecture there Sue and nice to see the Spring flowers in bloom.
Yes Dave, just love the architecture and history. Our garden is not quite as colourful but it’s great to see what is emerging as Spring arrives.
Stunning buildings Sue. Isn’t the world an incredible place. We have just finished visiting Nick and family who have moved into their new 4acres/house between Tilba and Narooma. It is a beautiful location with lots of room for a young family and close but not too close to grandparents. How lucky are we? Seeing lots to visit for our one day France visit. xxx
That’s great news about Nick and Bec, lovely to have them near but not too close as you say😊 Hoped we may have been able to start travelling a bit at the beginning of the month, but not looking so good again Covid wise. At least we have a beautiful garden to keep us occupied. Take care xx
Hi Sue and Chris. Beautiful photos of your day out. Pity about Covid ! Will the world ever be normal again. Keep well.
We can only hope! Trust you’re both well x
What beautiful buildings. Such a wonderful experience
makes me miss Europe 🙁
Keep training Rob, you’ll be back 😊