Ancient port by the mouth of the Hérault river
Agde 34300
+33 467 94 2968
ot-agde@wanadoo.fr
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Ancient port by the mouth of the Hérault river |
Office du Tourisme: 1, place Molière Agde 34300 +33 467 94 2968 ot-agde@wanadoo.fr |
This ancient port was founded by the Greeks over 2,500 years ago. Today, the commune of Agde sees its population of about 20 000 increase ten-fold during the summer months, and while most visitors will be destined for the nearby beaches or the seaside resort of Cap d'Agde, this town is nonetheless well endowed with restaurants, hotels, shops etc. Host to many archaeological expositions of international renown, the year 2000 sees the arrival of a new cultural centre open to all : the Maison de Savoir. Don't be put off from a stroll around the lanes of the town centre with its omnipresent black basalt. Among the most notable buildings is the fortress-like Cathedral Saint Etienne. Despite the bleak exterior, inside one cannot help but admire the enormous nave supported by its single beam. To escape the crowds wander along the banks of the Canal du Midi which passes by way of the town from the Etang de Thau heading towards Béziers and beyond. Alternatively, follow the Hérault river down its final kilometres until it meets the sea. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hypnotic_lounge |
A medieval port abandoned by the sea |
Aigues-Mortes Montpellier 30220 |
Once the 13th century port from where Louis IX departed at the head of the ill-fated 7th crusade, time has proved the town's name meaning 'dead waters' to be entirely apt. The retreating sea has left a small town of about 5,000 inhabitants surrounded by medieval walls, canals, marshland and salt mountains. The town offers a perfect day out from Montpellier but can equally be used as a base for exploring the Camargue. The functional medieval layout of the town with its impressive ramparts, dominated by the Tour de Constance, is remarkably preserved. Within the walls, the airy church of Notre Dame des Sablons with its contemporary stained glass windows is worth visiting and the central Place St-Louis is the perfect spot to relax. Many shops and galleries welcome those seeking more contemporary pursuits. Beyond the medieval town, one can follow the canals on foot or by bike or take one of the many boat tours. If the natural beauty of the Camargue beckons, sign up for a trip on horseback or by four-wheel drive. Finally, one should try some of the distinctive 'vin des sables' from one of the many local producers. The Office de Tourisme (at la Porte de la Gardette) has an excellent little guide giving opening times, addresses and telephone numbers for all these and many other activities. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The magic roundabout |
Place Charles-de-Gaulle-Étoile Paris 75008 +33 1 5537 7377 |
The arch is a site both of memories and current events and celebrations. The lists of the dead will move you. And the cars that drive around the monument will terrify you! Standing in a direct line between the Louvre and the Grande Arche de la Défense, the monument links the past with the present and offers amazing views. A truly impressive landmark, 50 metres high and 45 metres wide, Paris would not be Paris without it! Admission is EUR7. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Recalled to history |
Chateau Breteuil Choisel 78460 +33 (0)1 3052 0502 http://www.breteuil.fr |
This Historic Castle, with its parks and fountains is a haven for nature lovers. Transport yourself back to the 17th century as the guides of this castle take you through this huge estate in 17th century costumes. Annually, this castle gets 100,000 visitors and is one of the most frequented places in France. The historic rooms, the lush gardens and the wax figures invite you to explore this private estate. Belonging to the 10th marquis of Breteuil, this castle has France's largest dovecotes that were built in the 15th century. It is home to 3,000 pigeons. Don't be surprised if you see peacocks parading as you stroll down the gardens. Charles de Ferault has also been an inspiration for the parks in this castle. Add this place to your list of "things to see" in Paris. Admission: £9.90 adults, £8.90. Check website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Urban planning with lilacs |
Place Octave-Chanute Paris 75020 |
An architectural and town planning gem, this housing complex was built in 1908, consisting of 92 small brick and stone houses, each differently designed by a separate architect or builder. A successful example of social housing, the homes were initially financed through a lend-lease agreement for families of middle and lower income workers. Going up the steps from Place Octave-Chanute, you come to the streets Irenée-Blanc and Jules-Siegfried; in spring, each tiny garden is filled with lilac and wisteria, and it's hard to believe that you're still within Paris city limits. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Art Nouveau at its Prime |
14 Rue La Fontaine Paris 75016 http://www.lecerlceguimard.com... |
French Architect Hector Guimard encapsulates the short lived Art Nouveau style in his distinctive building, Castel Beranger. Completed in 1898, the structure's daring asymmetrical design still stands out today. What Gaudi brought to Barcelona, Guimard brought to Paris in this must see landmark. If you can't get inside the building for a special viewing of the interior, the engaging exterior is worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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France's greatest cathedral |
6 Place du Parvis-de-Notre-Dame (Quai aux Fleurs) Paris 75004 +33 1 4234 5610 |
Climbing the 387 steps to the top of this masterpiece is well worth the effort for the spectacular view. Construction of the first great Gothic cathedral began in 1163 and was largely completed by 1212. The rebuilding of the two transept gates in 1270 marked its completion. The west face is adorned with three richly decorated doorways and crowned with two 69m towers. The cathedral is busy at the best of times; especially on Sundays, when much of the building is closed to visitors. Admission: cathedral is free, towers around EUR6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gothic-Renaissance house near the cathedral |
37 Rue Saint-Jean Lyon 69005 |
A chamarier was a canon responsible for security within the walls of a cathedral complex. The house which can still be seen rue Saint Jean was built between the late 15th and early 16th centuries against the North wall since one of the chamarier's" functions was to check who was entering and leaving via the different gates. The façade, restored in the 19th century, is an example of secular architecture at the end of the Middle Ages (windows separated by pinnacles although only one is still mullioned). There is an interesting spiral staircase in a small tower inside the inner courtyard. This eclectic house is decorated with scrolls and a shellshapes which mark the transition from late Gothic to Renaissance architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Decorated by Tobiasse |
Rue St-Sauveur Le Cannet, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06110 |
Discover this attractive sixteenth-century chapel in the heart of the picturesque little village of Le Cannet, which is 3km from Cannes' centre. Built in stone, it was decorated in 1989 by Tobiasse, a very famous artist from this region (he lives in Saint-Paul de Vence for most of the year). He designed a mosaic pediment, stained-glass windows and painted wood panels, which make up a symbolic fresco, full of life, poetry and spirituality. Tobiasse was born in Israel in 1927. After living in Lithuania for a few years, he arrived in France in 1931. He came to Nice in 1950 and never left the region. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Restoration successful |
Château Chantilly Chantilly 60500 +33 3 4462 6262 http://www.chateaudechantilly.... ngarnier@chateaudechantilly.com |
A 16th century chateau has been transformed into a park, activity center, exhibition venue, and restaurant and gift shop. It even has a 'living horse' museum that displays many breeds of horses and features equestrian shows. This Renaissance chateau of Chantilly is set among undulating hills covered with beech trees. So enjoy a day out here, it is restored to rejuvenate! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jean-Michel VOLAT |
 Photo: Jean-Michel VOLAT |
Beautiful Historical Church |
1 Rue Saint Etienne du Mont Paris 75005 |
One of the most beautiful and historically significant churches in France, the L'église St Etienne du Mont is the final resting place of St Genevieve (c.420–c.500), Blaise Pascal, and Jean Racine. Its construction began in 1492 and wasn't completed until years later. Inside, you will find fine crastmanship in the form of stone sculpture, wood carvings, and remarkable stained-glass designs. The architecture of the church is very extravagant, with large domed spaces lit by high windows, and long spirraling stone staircases. There are various panels inside that provide historical information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A historic estate engulfed by the city |
1744, avenue Albert-Einstein (Le Millénaire) Montpellier 34000 +33 467 65 5172 |
This historic building is located 3 kilometres east of the city centre. Once a country house, this family property now finds itself and its surrounding parks and vineyards entirely swallowed by the city. The château, which dates from the 17th century and its collection of 17th and 18th century furnishings and art (including a large collection of optical instruments) can be visited in summer. Outside the house one can admire the gardens à la française as well as the château's own vineyards (Coteaux de la Méjanelle) whose wines can be tasted and bought on site. Call for seasonal opening times. Admission: EUR3.05-EUR 5.79. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Romance Chateau style |
Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte Maincy +33 1 6414 4190 http://www.vaux-le-vicomte.com chateau@vaux-le-vicomte.com |
This Chateau has two significantly inspired events. One was the tragic downfall of Fouquet, a minister who paid the price of life imprisonment because Ling Louis X1V was jealous of his beautiful chateaux. And the other was under the influence of Fouquet, Vaux became a haven for French artists, writers and sculptors who gave their all for the glory of Vaux. Check the website for information on the different visits. There is a candle light visit that is going to be apt for all the lovebirds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A luxury hotel in a Gothic & Renaissance building |
6 Rue du Boeuf Lyon 69005 |
The hôtel de luxe de la Cour des Loges is made up of several adjacent Gothic and Renaissance houses on the rue du Boeuf dating from the 15th to the 17th century. Most Renaissance houses in Lyons have only one passage linking the buildings together. The Cour des Loges is exceptional in that it has galleries, supported by large pillars, on three sides of the courtyard. Restored at the end of the 80s, it is now covered by a new glass roof. If you can't afford to stay the night in this elegant residence, go to the bar where the remains of a Jeu de Paume game are displayed on the interior walls. The courtyard is represented in a trompe-l'oeil wall painting in the place Fousseret, not far from the hotel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Italian-style theatre |
4 Rue Charles-Dullin Lyon 69002 +33 4 7277 4000 |
In prestigious surrounds, the Célestins offer an unbelievable and magical decor as well as an exceptional programme. Built by the architect G. André between 1872 and 1877, this theatre is considered to be one of the most representative of Italian-style theatres (the main hall houses the stage and tiers). The original structure, dating back to 1789-1792 had to be rebuilt after a fire in 1871, which destroyed the main hall. Another fire, three years later, meant that André's skills were needed again. The neoclassical façade presents many antique style columns and semi-circular bay windows made from different coloured materials. Inside the main hall, the ceiling painted by J. Domer in 1881 and called "la comédie d'Aristophane," depicting the famous Greek poet surrounded by Athena and musical allegories, has been preserved. In 1991, Lyons city council started some major restoration projects that included the place de la Bourse, the Place des Terreaux and this theatre. From the place des Célestins, there is an unobstructed view of the theatre's façade and also see from the underground car park through a periscope! The carpark, designed by the architect M. Targe and the artist D. Buren is not without reminding the Traboules de la Croix-Rousse. Admission: The office du tourisme de Lyon organises guided tours of the theatre for EUR7.60 for adults and EUR3.80 for school children and students. Bookings made at the tourist office: +33 4 7277 6969. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The symbol of Paris |
Champ de Mars Paris 75007 +33 1 4411 2323 http://www.tour-eiffel.fr/ courrier@tour-eiffel.fr |
Paris just wouldn't be Paris without the Eiffel Tower. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World Fair, at 300m it was then the world's tallest building. Not everyone was happy when it was first built; many considered it an eyesore and wanted it pulled down, but today it is one of the world's most visited monuments. The first and second floors can be reached using the stairs, and lifts take visitors to the magnificent view at the top. Admission (elevator to the top): Adults EUR11; Children EUR6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Seat of French Government - Presidential Palace |
55 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré Paris 75008 http://www.elysee.fr/ |
The Elysee Palace is the official home of the President of France - Jacques Chirac. It was built in 1722, between the Grande Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré - a small road leading to the village of Roule - and the Grand Cours (the Champs-Elysées), by architect Armand-Claude Mollet. The structures are a prime example of the classical style. There's an entrance vestibule running along the ceremonial courtyard and gardens, a long central building, a State, apartment divided down the middle by a large salon that opens out onto the garden. On December 12, 1848, the National Assembly issued a decree designating the "Elysée National" as the Residence of the French President, and it is a potent symbol of the French Republic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Built to watch over Marseilles |
2, boulevard Charles-Livon Marseilles 13007 +33 491 13 8900 (office du Tourisme) |
Situated at the entrance to the Vieux-Port on the south bank, Fort Saint-Nicolas was built on the orders of the "Sun King" Louis XIV, according to a radial design plan by the chevalier de Clerville in the 17th century.Built to watch over the townspeople and to defend the crown against civil unrest or rebellion, the canons were turned on the city. The tower, named Entrecasteaux, is now home to the Foreign Legion. The only way to visit the fort is through the Tourist Office which has arranged organised tours. Admission is EUR6.10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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House of holy relics |
4 Boulevard du Palais (on Ile de la Cite) Paris 75001 +33 (0)1 5340 6080 sainte-chapelle@monum.fr |
Located in the center of the city within the Palais de Justice complex on the Ile de la Cite, La Sainte Chapelle (Holy Chapel) is a small Gothic chapel constructed in the Rayonnant style. Built by King Louis IX from 1238-1244, the chapel housed holy relics from the Passion believed to be Jesus' Crown of Thorns and a piece of the True Cross. These items were purchased from the Byzantine emperor Baldwin II in 1239 for a huge sum of 135,000 livres (the church cost 40,000 livres to build) due to the King's desire to elevate France as the leader of Western Christianity. La Sainte Chapelle provides visitors with a spectacular visual experience, since the entire upper tier of the chapel is surrounded by enormous stained glass windows. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Paris' Town Hall |
4 Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville Paris 75004 +33 (0)1 4952 5354 (L'Information De touristes) |
This splendid neo-Renaissance-style building is just minutes from the Seine and right in the heart of the capital. In 1260, Louis IX decided to endow Paris with the means of organizing its own affairs. Situated in Place de Grève (meaning "strike", the square gets its name from discontented workers who often demonstrated here!), the building was used as the seat of government during the French Revolution, when a guillotine stood imposingly in front of its windows. Burnt to the ground during a working-class uprising in 1871, it was rebuilt 11 years later and became the current Town Hall. Crystal chandeliers, beautiful paintings and vast function rooms are all part of its sumptuous interior. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Excursion to Lérins islands |
Island St Honorat Cannes, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06406 +33 4 9299 5400 |
Rich in monastic tradition and history, the smallest and most distant of the two Lérins islands (1500m long by 400m wide and some 3km in circumference) used to be called Lérina. It has fertile soil and magnificent trees, notably Aleppo pines. A reef protects the south side of the island against the sea. Once on the island, make sure you visit the abbey Notre-Dame de Lérins, its main attraction. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lero Island |
Les Îles de Lérin Cannes, Alpes-Côte d'Azur 06400 +33 4 9343 1817 (Musée de la Mer ) |
The largest of the three Lérin islands, is a fifteen-minute boat ride from Cannes. In ancient times it was called Léro. Numerous boat companies make the crossing from the old port. Also inhabiting this island is a seventeenth-century fort, which houses the Maritime Museum. This fort was once a prison, and was the home to the unidentified character, called the man in the iron mask. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A watery kingdom |
140, boulevard Longchamp Marseilles 13001 +33 491 62 2182 |
The Palais Longchamp - designed by architect Espérandieu - was built in conjunction with the construction of the canal in 1839. The arrival of water from the Durance in 1849 allowed the town to supply the new districts to the east.Today, the waterfalls, ornamental lakes, fountains and numerous sculptures give this enchanting place an Italian Renaissance feel. Housing Marseilles' Fine Arts Museum in its left wing and the Natural History Museum in the right, this watery palace - a masterpiece of the Second Empire - commemorates and unites the glory of water, the arts and the sciences under one magnificent roof. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lush Landscape in Historic Setting |
15 Rue de Vaugirard Paris, Île-de-France 75006 +33 1 4234 2000 |
A visit to the Luxembourg Palace (completed in 1627) provides a feast for the eyes, highlighting both history and exquisite art in a natural setting. To begin with there are paintings by Rubens and fine works by Delacroix. Historically the area is interesting because during the French Revolution it was a prison and today it is home to the national Senate. Luxembourg Palace Gardens is really an extensive park filled with all types of flowers, plants, shrubs immaculately landscaped to create an Edenesque environment. The setting is perfect for a fun day out and depending on the weather you can rent a small boat on one of the ponds. Or simply, as a visitor, you can enjoy all of the historic statuary recalling France of past eras. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A majestic 17-18th century city hall restored by architect Mansart |
1 Place de la Comédie Lyon 69001 +33 4 7210 3030 |
In the 17th century the councillors and council offices had offices in the hôtel de la Couronne but a decision was made rapidly to construct a more suitable building. So, between 1646 and 1672, S.Maupin was responsible for building a monument that reflected the ambitions of the city of Lyon: he imagined four buildings around an entrance courtyard (opposite today's Opéra house). In this courtyard a portico and a grand staircase lead to the "cour d'honneur". The building was barely finished in 1674 when it caught fire and further financing and extensive re-decoration were needed. All the pavilions and the belfry (containing 65 bells) resisted reasonably well until the restoration started in 1700 under the guidance of J.H.Mansart who also improved the outer decor. A magnificent hemicycle-shaped portico decorated with Gods of the sea and a Cyclops was added in the "cour d'honneur". Mansart completed his design with the ancient architecture he so admired. The decoration of the main rooms, such as "la grandeur consulaire de Lyon" painted by T.Blanchet in 1660, was a source of great pride for the city of Lyon and its councillors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home to Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo |
34 Quai du Louvre Entrée principale: Pyramide & Cour Napoléon Paris 75001 +33 (0)1 40 20 50 50 http://www.louvre.fr/llv/commu... http://www.louvre.fr/llv/contacts/detail_contact.jsp?CONTENT%3C%3Ecnt_id=10134198673229748&CURRENT_L |
Only a few people know that the third largest museum worldwide used to be the main residence of French kings and emperors for six centuries. The Old Fortress was erected in 1190 under the reign of King Philippe Auguste to protect the kingdom from the invasion of northern tribes (the Vikings). During the 14th century, the palace was extended under Charles V and became from time to time a royal residence. The greatest changes in the original palace were made under King François I. The medieval Grosse Tour was destroyed and replaced by a sumptuous palace, still considered a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. In 1594, Henri IV decided to build a passage between the Tuileries Palace and Louvre Palace, still known as the "Great Gallery". The "Cour Carrée" was part of a vast program conducted under Louis XIII and Louis XIV to embellish the king's residence and is a symbol of the classical period. After Louis XIV moved to Versailles, the Louvre knew a static period. The most recent construction is the Glass Pyramid erected by Leoh Ming Pei under French President Mitterrand, which is now the main entrance to the museum. With 35000 pieces and a surface of about 740000 sq. ft., the Louvre cannot be taken in in one day. The museum comprises eight departments: Eastern and Middle-Eastern Antiquities including treasures from Mesopotamia, Syria or Iran dating back to the Neolithic period; Egyptian Antiquities, Greek, Roman and Etruscan Antiquities dating from 6000 BC to 600 AD; Islamic Art, Sculptures, Decorative Art which includes among other pieces, famous Empress Eugénie's and Louis XV's coronation crowns; Paintings from 13th century to 1848 and Prints and Drawings (viewed by appointment). Besides famous Da Vinci's Mona Lisa and Veronese's Wedding Feast at Cana, you will admire paintings from Italian Renaissance (Titian, Raphael, etc), masterpieces of Dutch Painters like Rubens, Van Eyck as well as Vermeer's Lacemaker. Also, very famous among French people, don't forget Dürer's Self-Portrait, Delacroix's Liberté Guidant le Peuple or David's Coronation of Napoleon. Among sculptures, in addition to Venus de Milo and Winged Victory of Samothrace, pay a tribute to Michelangelo's Slaves. Insider's tips: bring some patience and buy your tickets online to escape the long lines. Also, come back at night to see the Pyramids illuminated! Admission:EUR 8,50. For lectures, movies and music, consult the Auditorium's program. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Emperor's Final Resting Place |
Esplanade des Invalides 7th Arrondissement Paris, Île-de-France +45 55 92 30 |
Napoleon Bonaparte (b.1769) died in exile on the Isle of St. Helena in 1821. Apparently the French thought better of him after his death and in 1840 his remains were returned to France and this magnificent memorial that was built between 1843-53 now serves as his final resting place. Visitors can observe the giant sarcophagus (13 x 6.5 x 14.25). The layout has a total of five gigantic blocks. Along the walls is etched a chronicle of Napoleon's victories that add counter-point to the grandeur of the vault. Napoleon's Tomb sets in Les Invalides that was built by Louis XIV originally as a hospital for injured soldiers. On the grounds is also the Musee de l'Armee, the French war museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Magnificent Italian opera house by the sea |
39178 Rue Saint-François de Paule Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6300 +33 4 9217 4000 http://www.opera-nice.org opera.billetterie@ville-nice.fr |
Going at least once to a performance at the Opera de Nice is a must, even if it's just to admire the fairy-like theatre and its enormous chandelier. Each year the Opera de Nice puts on no less than 7 operas and 15 concerts! The productions are always of very high calibre. Good seats need to be reserved in advance for the operas. Concert tickets are obtained more easily. The Corvesy parking garage, rue Alexandre Mari, offers a special price upon presentation of your ticket. Check their website for the upcoming events and performances. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Former Law Courts, neoclassical design |
Quai Romain-Rolland Lyon 69005 |
The old Palais de Justice (the new one is located in the Part Dieu district) was built on the banks of the Saône by L.P. Baltard between 1835 and 1845, at a time when classical antiquity was in vogue for art and architecture. The façade that overlooks the Saone river is neo-classical and resembles a Greco-Roman temple with 24 fluted columns and Corinthian capitals, Attic entablature and a monumental staircase. The effect is striking. The palace is organised around "la salle des pas perdus" where the accused, lawyers and private parties would wait their turn to appear before the judge. This extraordinary room covered by three cupolas illustrates themes close to the heart of justice. Take a close look at two frescoes by G.Bonnet one of which is called "la Justice punissant le crime (Justices metes out punishment for a crime)". Review © 2007, Wcities |
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High Culture in the City of Light |
Place de l'Opéra Place de l'Opéra Paris, Île-de-France +33 0 1 40 01 17 89 http://www.opera-de-paris.fr/ |
The Paris Opera is a world-class venue that offers an annual calendar of cultural events including operas and ballets. A typical year will feature "The Damnation of Faust", "The Bat" or "Othello", and programs of the Bolshoi Ballet. Each year there is an elaborate New Year's Eve ballet that includes some of the greatest classics of the art. This elaborate offering is the ultimate high end of international culture and is a great way to celebrate the New Year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brad Fischer |
 Photo: Combined Media |
 Photo: James Dezendorf |
 Photo: Uri Breitman |
 Photo: larry.anonuevo@sbcglobal.net |
 Photo: Allison Lund |
 Photo: Kate Pipa |
 Photo: Shane K M Hayes |
 Photo: fight |
 Photo: Carlos Mendoza |
 Photo: Miguel Á. Herrero |
 Photo: Abigail Gray |
 Photo: Norm Horner |
 Photo: Joel Cadman |
 Photo: Randy Lenci |
 Photo: Ana M.P.A. BombaRosa |
 Photo: Dallas Ransom |
 Photo: Tiffany Shropshire |
Superb when lit |
Place de la Bourse (St-Rémi) Bordeaux 33000 |
Also known as Place Royale, this is a perfect example of Bordeaux architecture at the end of the 18th century. This is a beautiful line of archways and slate roofs, with an impressive fountain in the centre - a setting made even more magnificent when it is lit up at night. There is a superb view of the Garonne river's right bank from this square. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wavy@ |
 Photo: Jérôme Duclos |
 Photo: Metaloxyd |
 Photo: annchabada |
 Photo: Christophe Brocas |
 Photo: Georges_M |
 Photo: Thierry Méchain |
 Photo: Johanna Schoeffert |
 Photo: Emily Miller |
 Photo: Jerome Gennevieve |
 Photo: izzyguide |
 Photo: GaijinSeb |
Restored to its former glory |
1 Place du Palais-du-Justice (Rue de la Prefecture) Nice, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 6300 |
It's not been that long since the city of Nice got down to restoring this square, which was in much need of a facelift. Today, you can see it at its best, with attractive stone paving work in warm colours and a pretty fountain that catches the beautiful bright Mediterranean light. From the top of an impressive staircase, the recently renovated law courts (divested of their awful elevations) proudly overlook this square in all its rediscovered architectural beauty. On the right, there's a small bell tower with a series of archways running on behind. Pleasant café terraces are the perfect place to soak up this truly Mediterranean atmosphere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Charlotte L |
 Photo: Mike Dimmick |
 Photo: Cedric Han |
 Photo: Juanito churros |
 Photo: janneja |
 Photo: petitegeek |
A historic and noble town |
Maison du Tourisme et de la Culture Maison du Barbier Gély - Place Gambetta Pézenas 34120 +33 467 98 3640 / +33 467 98 3545 ot.pezenas@wanadoo.fr |
The birthplace of Molière in 1650 and the seat of political power in the Languedoc from the 15th to 18th century, this little town is rich in history and culture. Its distinctive and well preserved architecture has lent itself as a backdrop to many films and costume dramas and draws in a multitude of tourists each year. In the narrow lanes of its historic centre, among numerous shops and boutiques, are architectural jewels such as the Hôtels de Grasset and of the Barons de Lacoste, the facades in Rue Victor Hugo, the loggia of the Hôtel Alphonse as well as the tiny Jewish district. From July till September the town centre hosts the Mirondela des Arts festival, consisting of theatre pieces, concerts and exhibitions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: christophe LECLERC |
 Photo: Camille Quignon |
 Photo: shesamaniac13 |
A historic and beautiful town |
Office de Tourisme Avenue de la Libération Uzès 30700 +33 466 22 6888 http://www.uzes.fr |
This town of under 10,000 inhabitants revels in a rich historic and architectural inheritance acknowledged since 1962 by it being named among the 500 French Villes d'Arts. The Gallic-Roman town of Ucetia converted early to Christianism and was an important Episcopal seat from the 5th century up until the Revolution. During the Wars of Religion, the town was an important Huegenot stronghold and saw the destruction of its 12th century Cathedral that was later rebuilt in 1663. Despite losing many of its important families following the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, the town prospered during the 16th and 17th centuries seeing the construction of many fine hôtels from the fortunes of its textile mills, silk production and other commerce. Among the jewels of the beautiful centre is the Duché and its keep, the Tour Bermonde, dating from the 11th century, the Hôtel de Ville, and the Hôtel de Baron de Castille as well as the old Bishop's Palace and the magnificent arcades of the Place aux Herbes. The Office of Tourism proposes various guided tours well worth considering as well as circuits for discovering the history of the town yourself. Home to numerous museums and galleries, the town also maintains a rich tradition in the arts and crafts and organising various festivities among which the Nuits Musicales is probably the most spectacular. From Montpellier follow the autoroute A9 until the exit at Remoulins and then the D981, direction Arlès. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pär Kjellberg |
 Photo: Jolene Freedlun |
 Photo: R. Omary |
 Photo: Conrado Plano |
 Photo: Marnie Soom |
The Sun King's Palace |
Avenue de Paris (place d'Armes) Versailles 78000 +33 1 3083 7800 http://www.chateauversailles.fr |
Tired of Paris, the Sun King (Louis XIV enjoyed likening himself to Apollo, God of the arts, peace and the sun!) commissioned architects Louis le Vau and Jules Hardouin to build the château of Versailles in 1668, on the site of his father's small hunting lodge. It became the largest palace in Europe, accommodating up to 20,000 courtiers at a time. Charles Le Brun, the painter, designed the interior, whose highlights include the Royal Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors. The Grand Trianon (1687) and the Petit Trianon (1762) are also in the park. The former, built in stone and marble, housed Louis XIV's mistress, whilst the latter, a small manor house, was home to Louis XV's mistress. Admission: Château EUR7, Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon EUR5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francisco Antunes |
 Photo: Jeff Kwok, Hong Kong |
 Photo: Evgeniya Rubinina |
Former royal palace |
Avenue de Paris Vincennes Vincennes 94300 +33 (0)1 4808 3120 |
This imposing building wasn't built in a day. In the 12th century, king Philippe-Auguste commissioned the construction of a manor house in the Bois de Vincennes. It was fortified two centuries later. Its flamboyant gothic style chapel wasn't finished until the 15th century and it was king Louis XV who, in the 18th century, added the King and Queen's pavilions. The First Empire saw the take over by the army of the castle, which became an arsenal. There are today two museums in the dungeon and the royal pavilions. The Sainte-Chapelle has a nave and rose-windows in magnificent stone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: cdryk |
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