Could it be Magic?, Blois, France, August 2000

24-Jun-2013 • Blois France

Blois reminded me a little bit about my adopted city of San Francisco. It was a very hilly city. We arrived in Blois early in the afternoon which gave us time to tour not only its main sights but walk around the city center and both window shop and shop.

The Chateau de Blois

Right in front of the main entrance to the Chateau de Blois with the statue of King Louis XII right above it.

Marc in front of the same main entrance to the Chateau or castle

Inside the courtyard of the Chateau de Blois once occupied by King Louis XII. This is the spiral staircase with elaborately ornamented balustrades and the figure of the salamander which was the king's symbol

Another view of the courtyard of the Chateau de Blois in all its splendor.

On the premises of the chateau or castle facing the Place Augustin Thierry. Impressive building, isn't it?

I was quite surprised to see Marc readily posing for pictures here. Who wouldn't anyway with all the beautiful surroundings? Taken at Place Augustin Thierry with the chateau in the background

Another part of the chateau or castle

Besides the Chateau de Blois, another attraction in the city is a museum devoted entirely to magic. Le Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin or The House of the Magician Robert-Houdin is right across from the castle. It is described as a French museum, in fact, the only museum in Europe to incorporate collections of magic as well as a site for permanent performing arts all linked to the the famed magician.

The statue of Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin in front of the museum which bears his name

The museum reminded me a little bit about Disneyland. I told Marc so. Not only is the museum with artifacts and exhibits, it had a wonderful show of dragons coming out of its many windows every hour. Tourists, including ourselves, were amazed.

Here were more dragons coming out one by one from the museum's windows.

Voila!

The informative plaque and sign about the Eglise Saint Vincent

The nave of Eglise Saint Vincent in downtown Blois

This is more like it. The city center of Blois still open for business during the afternoon we were there and buzzing with activity

Just as I mentioned previously, Blois is perched on hills. This is just one of the many winding and steep, but picturesque, pathways running through the entire city.

The Cathedrale St. Louis

After traveling to many French cities and towns by now, I couldn't help but notice the preponderance of churches and cathedrals just about everywhere. Hmm, the French must be so religious?