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Latest Bourges hotel reviews
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Favorite thing: Very little remains to celebrate Bourges most famous ruler. Jean, Duc du Berry, was the brother of King Charles V and was the richest and most cultured member of his family. His father Jean II (le Bon) was of similar nature. The son was exchanged as a hostage to the English who had captured the father. When this was resolved in the 1340’s he settled in Berry and began his career of assembling collections of fine tapestries and other works of Art (somewhat in competition with his other brothers in Burgundy and Anjou.). The most famous item is his “book” of miniatures “Tres Riches Heures du Duc de Berry”, primarily ones by the Limbourg brothers, now minimally exhibited in the museum at Chantilly, items from it present in all Art History Books. (The picture here is from the month of January and shows the Duc at Table exchanging gifts on New Year’s Day. There is a military tapestry on the back wall). He had an elaborate tomb made (modeled after brother Philippe’s tomb in Dijon) by Jean de Cambrai, but it was destroyed in the 18C. The original effigy is in the Crypt of the Cathedral and other parts in the Palace of Jacques Coeur.
Written Feb 15, 2009
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Favorite thing: The statue brings up memories of the history of Jacques Coeur. He was born in Bourges (1394-1456), and was a financier and merchant who became master of the mint (Grand Argentier) under Charles V, where he unified the coinage of the country. He prospered by his development of French trade with the Levant and had many associates carefully located for that purpose. (He and they were not of the nobility). He continued successful in everything but was brought down by false accusations, tried and imprisoned for life in 1453, His associates engineered his escape. He became an advisor to the Pope in Rome and died on a Crusade in 1456. He did not see the completion of his retirement palace but installed many comforts there not seen in mansions before. This statue in his honor stands in a square before his mansion.
Written Feb 15, 2009
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Favorite thing: The Cathedral St Etienne in Bourges was built in the 13th century and is one of the top rated cathedrals in France. This is where I had my first communion.
For more information check with the Bourges Tourism Office
Fondest memory: We attended a wedding in this Cathedral last year and the organ music was absolutely wonderful.
Written Aug 25, 2002
Written Jan 18, 2003
Written Jan 18, 2003
Favorite thing: This is on the one of the main avenues in Bourges, the Rue des Arènes.
Written Jan 18, 2003
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Reviews and photos of Bourges attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Bourges sightseeing.
This is on the one of the main avenues in Bourges, the Rue des Arènes.
3 members live in Bourges
Q: Thanks to all who helped me with the bus/train to Chartres problem. Now I am looking for a self-catering apartment in Bourges (the...
A: From the official tourist info site for Bourges it seems that self-catering accommodation in the town is in very short supply (well,...
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Bourges is a town and commune in central France that is located on the Yèvre river. The name of the city is either derived from, the Bituriges; the name of the original inhabitants; or from the...
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A Class Cathedral and A Rich Man's Palace
Bourges (pop. 71K) is 106 km south of Orleans and 238 km (150 miles) south of Paris. It is in the southeast part of Centre in the department of Cher (18). The last of the famous chateaux are at Gien...
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Always, Architecture is intertwined with politics. This great Cathedral is no exception. It was the first Cathedral in the French Royal Style (a.k.a. Gothic) to be constructed south of the Loire....
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I'm sure you've heard that gargoyles are decorative ways to move water off the roof of a cathedral so it won't damage the inside of the walls. I believed it but never saw it in action until Bourges....
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A city rich in history........
I've got some interesting experiences in Bourges. I'd love to share with you the 9 tips I've written, the 15 photos uploaded, and 1 travelogue I've created.
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