We've been in Montpellier, France for about four full days now, and I've been sick, but we're trying to do as much as possible in spite of that. Hopefully if I'm feeling better tomorrow, we'll try to do a day trip to another city close by. We'll tell you about that if we do.
First of all, here's some background about Montpellier, in the form of Fun Facts, because who doesn't love a good Fun Fact?
1. It used to be the second biggest city in France (Paris was biggest) in the 13th century.
2. It's been a University town also since the 13th century.
3. Montpellier is home to the oldest botanical garden in France.
4. It was a huge port town and trading center in the 14th century.
5. The Guilhelm dynasty established Montpellier as a major European power beginning in the twelth century and lasting for centuries after that.
6. Currently, Montpellier remains a cultural capital of Europe.
Up to now, here's mainly what we've done.
We seem to spend a lot of time in Place de la Comèdie, since it's a short tram ride from our host's, right in the historic center, and a good walking distance from many other sights. In the Place, there are small vendors as well as larger stores, people everywhere, and the large L'Opera Comèdie.
Additionally, we have spent some time in Place Peyrou. This Place is home to a statue of Louis XIV on horseback as well as the Peyrou Aqueducts and Water Tower. The Aqueducts took almost the entire 18th century to build and show what impact the Romans had on Montpellier.
Across from Place Peyrou is Montpellier's very own Arc de Triumph. This was commemorate Louis XIV's victories over the enemies of France and Protestant heresy and the construction of the Canal du Midi.
Only a short walk down the road are the Saint Pierre Cathedral and Jardin de Plantes. The Cathedral was built in 1364 and houses the oldest functional medical university in the world, founded in 1593. The gardens are, as we mentioned before, France's oldest botanical gardens. The architect, Jean-Antoine Giral, was also the architect of the Aqueducts and Opera House.
Well, that's all for today!
Ariel
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I love your fun facts. I didn't know anything at all about Montpellier so this was helpful. It sounds like a lovely place to spend a week. Are any gardens in bloom? How close to the coast is it? Thanks for the update. We anxiously await photos!
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