Reid Hall's adorable and passionate professor of medieval arts accompanied us, in order to fully explain the entire history of the large cathedral in the center of the city. This was where almost every King of France was crowned, and supposedly endowed with supernatural powers, not only to flawlessly rule the country, but also to heal lepers. Just to prove their divinity, newly crowned kings would cure a handful of lepers right after their coronation.
After a very thorough and rather cold tour of the Cathedral, we were more than ready for some hot crêpes and café. After that, we descended into the caves of champagne for which the region is famous. And yes, ONLY the french display modern art in their champagne caves.
In fact the art exhibit is in keeping with tradition, the caves are covered with astounding works of art carved into the expansive walls. 300 feet down, these carvings had to be made by candlelight, and are so large and detailed that the artist went blind after completing them.
The works of modern art are juxtaposed beside the 19th century homages to Bacchus, and each masterpiece is surrounded by several thousand bottles of champagne.
The day ended with a generous tasting of their champagne, and an impassioned debate over the hints of fruit within each glass. If I had known how to say burnt candied pecans in french, I would have sounded all the smarter... but I had to rest with my favorite french word: pamplemousse (grapefruit).
You make me smile :)
ReplyDeleteKeep those blogs coming both of you. I check every day for new entries.
ReplyDeletewow- pressure is on! OK, working on one!
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