An early morning start up on Montmartre which still preserves some of its artistic roots.
Saint Chapelle is the former royal chapel and known for its captivating 7200 square feet of stained glass.
Next door at the bottom of the Palais de la Justice is the Conciergerie – a former prison which included the former cell of Marie Antoinette.
I am finding my own suburb, Boulogne-Billancourt to be incredible charming. The majority of buildings seem to be from the 1920s and 30s so there is a strong art deco feel. Across the Seine, heading towards Paris is the area of Javel and the Andre Citroen Park. A beautiful park sitting next to the sleek…
An early start to the day and the shining brightly on the obligatory Eiffel Tower shot. Hiding behind me was a short but intense burst of rain, coming up behind Trocadero Fortunately once it cleared it was blue skies again and a great chance to wander the left bank without any particular destination in mind…
Two different galleries – both for shopping rather than art. Starting with Gallerie Vivienne a covered set of shops dating back to 1826. Next up, Galleries Lafayette, probably the largest department store known outside France. I took a guided tour that allowed access an hour before the store opened to learn all about the history…
A quick train ride from Bari (and a seven minute train ride between each other) are the seaside towns of Monopoli (no relation to the game) and Polignano ad Mare. Monopoli has that port / fishing village feel. Great buildings and narrow streets to wander. Less expected was Monopoli’s cathedral. It was a masterpiece of…
Two of the most beautiful churches in Lecce are Santa Croce and San Matteo. Santa Croce is a jaw dropping moment as you come around the corner and see the very ornate facade. I am sure it makes a stunning wedding venue. San Matteo is more bell shaped but just as beautiful inside.
Invalides is a complex which includes an army museum, the Cathedral of St Louis and the Domes des Invalides, containing tombs of significant French figures. It has also maintained its longstanding function as a retirement home for former soldiers. Its gold dome is visible from many parts of the city. It is most notably, the…
