France 2008

Troyes, 6-7 July

		Driving from Vezelay to Troyes, we enjoyed a visit to the little medieval town of Noyers, despite light rain. *
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		Travelling around France, Lynn from time to time complained about a smell of cat's pee. This notice made her think that maybe cats were not always the problem. †
		We revisited the Abbey of Pontigny, which we had seen in 2004. *
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		The organ in the abbey church. *
		Unusually, there was a rood screen separating the choir from the nave. *
		Troyes had an interesting medieval centre, with much half-timbering. *
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		The main square was pleasant to look at, but packed with rather indifferent restaurants catering to tourists. *
		There was a carousel set up near by. *
		We visited the church of St Urbaine, with beautiful stained glass. *
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		We walked past the Hôtel-Dieu, an 18th century general hospital that is now a national monument. *
		The main square had this typically understated French statue. †
		We also visited the Madeleine church, which had this very ornate rood screen or joué between the choir and the people. *
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		It also had this statue of the Virgin and child. *
		The church of St-Pantaleon had a display of grisaille stained glass. *
		For our last night before Paris, we went to Bistroquet which was a very traditional restaurant. *
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		Nick ordered mousse au chocolat for dessert. It came in a huge bowl, from which he could serve himself as much as he felt was a good serve. A man in chocolate heaven! *

Then into the car for the last time to head for Paris.