I hope I can write in English, as I’m already thinking in French. Today is bright, warm and sunny here in France, a good morning for coffee and a croissant at a small outdoor table next to the giant 18th century Porte Guillaume arch that leads to the old city of Dijon. While John took it easy, I went for a beautiful morning walk on cobblestone streets to enjoy this city’s famous architecture.
There is a blend of Tudor and Medieval designs with contemporary buildings and public art that make for picturesque views around every corner.
The church of Notre Dame is particular impressive with its rows of menacing gargoyles.
The church was built in the first part of the 13th century. I loved how smooth the floors were, worn down by thousands of pairs of shoes over so many years.
The remnants of a medieval wall painting.
Alongside Gothic architecture are many half-timbered Tudor era buildings. The one below, like many of the others, is sagging along the horizontal wooden beams.
The photo below was taken in the courtyard of a residence once built for a Duke that is now a large art museum. Check out the dude sleeping under the watchful eye of the Duke’s statue (far right).
Classical guitar on the plaza.
Dijon is the capital of this wine-growing region of France, but it perhaps better known for its mustard, which you can find on every street corner.
Dijon is also a “foodie” town. The Cite of Gastronomie and Wine has a number of food-related exhibitions, a cooking school and a food court.
We ate gourmet pizza and salad at this modern bar.
But there is always room for afternoon coffee and the Pastry of the Day…
A tiny Tart Mendiants, with walnuts, hazelnuts and other nuts drenched in a sweet caramel-y sauce, inside a flaky short crust. Paul Hollywood would give the baker a handshake for this one.
