Cultural Excursions

Two walking tours in Paris:  LE MARAIS is without a doubt one of Paris's most interesting districts. Originally built on a swamp, it is a fancy neighborhood due to the many noble and religious people with mansions.  MONTMARTRE: a hill in the north of Paris, primarily known for the white-domed Basilica of the Sacré Coeur on its summit.

 

The Loire Valley excursion gives a look into the splendors of royal living in three châteaux during the Renaissance and later. CHENONCEAU, the elegant "Chateau aux Dames", built across the River Cher, in pure traditional Renaissance style. A royal tree-lined pathway and gardens lead to the Chateau. CHAMBORD, the largest of the Loire Chateaux, built in grandiose style for Francois 1er as a hunting residence. AMBOISE, to which Leonardo da Vinci lent his artistic genius.

 

Mont-Saint-Michel, an island off the coast of Brittany and Normandy, which holds a village and a large monastery, topped by an Abbey built by Cistercian monks is one of the most spectacular sights in the world and was an almost impenetrable stronghold.

 

Tentative Itinerary

June 21 Arrival

June 22-26 Classes

June 27-28 Mont-Saint-Michel

June 29-July 3  Classes / Le Marais

July 4-5  Free

July 6- 10  Classes

July 11-12 Loire Valley

July 13-17  Classes  / Montmartre

July 18-19  Free

 July 20-24 Classes

July 25 Departure