A Trip To The Past Please click an image to enlarge |
| The Loire Valley Troglodytes | As you explore the Loire Valley you can not fail to notice the abundance of dwellings dug in the slopes and rock faces of the landscape. These are refered to as Trglodytes and are the result of local peoples desires to use the environment to its full potential. The dwellings are dug deep into the tock and have the advantage of staying at a constant 12 degrees making them a good all year round habitat providing heat in the winter and cool in the summer periods, as well as a good protection from the elements. A great place to take children as apart from the historical interest they will enjoy exploring the caves. |
| St-Remy-Sur-Cruse Ethni'cite. | Are you familiar with your prehistoric ancestors? Here there are many workshops are offered to both children and adults: introduction to the art of fire making, the size of flint, ceramics amongst many others. Learn about the excavation and research of archaeological traces. Discover the different habitats of indigenous people throughout the world reconstructed on the wooded hillsides. Try primative hunting with a propellant and spears, as still exists today amongst some ethnic groups in Australia. |
| Grottoes of Noree Baird | Located in the valley of Boive, a few kilometeres from Potiers the caves of the Noree are the only natrual cavities of the Vienna accessible to the public. Over the 150m galleries and six rooms available ,the visit provides an opportunity to discover various forms sculptured and developed movements by lighting; Pans, erosions, curtains cutouts, petrified waterfalls, veils, drapes & stalagmites.The New Chamber Macaroni, delight young and old alike. An exhibition is dedicated to the history of caves over time and The Middle Jurassic throught the lives of bats. |
| Site Gallo-Romain a Sanxay | Located in the lush setting of the valley of the Vienne, Sanxay sanctuary is the best preserved and the most important of the Gallo-Roman world. On an area of 20 hectares, the site is dedicated to the worship of water, the source of life and the fertility generator. From the 1st to the 4th century this was a place of pilgrimage under the protection of Mercury & Apollo. On the right bank lie the ruins of amphitheater, its estimated it could hold 6500 spectators. On the left bank are the remains of a large spa. See also the ruins of the temple and the homes of the 15th & 16th century carved facades & the Castle of Marconnay. |
| Nouaille-Maupertuis Spectacle Medieval & The Abbey | Nouaille-Maupertuis is famous for the battle of Poitiers in 1356 when the King of France Jean le Bon was taken prisoner by the English. Every year during the month of June, the whole village participates in the reconstruction of the famous battle, a spectacle not to be missed. Visit The Abbey and its medieval gardens located in the wooded valley. A network of paths has been established particually around the abbey. Medieval feasts take place in May & June. See the art exhibitions and the heritage displays, the battle field of 1356, also the church built in the eleventh centuary is a must. |
| Château de Chinon | Chinon, a delightful town with an amazingly well-preserved medieval centre dominated by a spectacular château. The chateau was a residence of Charles VII, the Dauphin of France in the early 15th century. Joan of Arc arrived at the castle, at the beginning of her quest to liberate France from the English; March 8, 1429; it was here that she recognized the Dauphin from amongst his courtiers, a feat which helped to persuade him to accede to her urging to declare himself king and raise an army to liberate France. Chinon's medieval town centre is so perfect that you feel like you have stepped back in time. Rue Voltaire is where you'll find 15th to 16th century houses including the Musee Anime du Vin which explores the history of wine making. Note the houses made of the distinctive white tufa stone contrasting sharply with the more common half-timbered houses. |