The main highlights not to be missed are the gates at either end of the town, Gate of Bourgogne, Gate of Samois; the carpentry adorned house on the market square, Don jon, the Church of Notre-Dame; the Francois 1st facade - depicating the Labours of Hercules***; Renaissance houses, and Maison des Religieuses. We spent the day exploring these, then hurried back before the threatening thunder soaked us, but thankfully it never arrived.
***These details were difficult to discern but are said to be:
1.Slay the Nemean Lion
2.Slay the nine-headed Lernaean Hydra
3.Capture the Golden Hind of Artemis
4.Capture the Erymanthian Boar
5.Clean the Augean stables in a single day
6.Slay the stymphalian Birds
7.Capture the Cretan Bull
8.Steal the Mares of Diomedes
9.Obtain the girdle of Hippolyta,Queen of the Amazons
10.Obtain the cattle of the monster Geryon
11.Steal the apples of the Hesperides (he had the help of Atlas to pick them after Hercules had slain Ladon)
12.Capture and bring back Cerberus
so now you know!
We've finally arrived at St. Mammes on the river Seine, at the confluence of le Canal du Loing, and its Tashi's 7th birthday!
We were interested in the little L'eglise de Saint-Mammes, and asked if we could see inside. Laurette (the Capitain) arranged for a guide from Centre de Recherche et de Documentation Medievales et Archeologiques (CRDMA), Claud to show us around. A very interesting man, who was pleased that someone was interested and the next day he arrived at our boat with two prints for us. One of Le Croix Blanche, Alfred Sisley, and the other a detailed drawing of the Bateau Berrichon. We will endeavour to have both framed. A very kind man.
We are moving/cruising, but not very fast, and not very far! Totalling chilling out!
The weekend in Saint Mammes proved to be very interesting. First on the Saturday we were entertained by local teams of jousters - Joutes parisiennes. The youngsters aged about 9 years and upwards were being given instructions. Then the serious business began with the adults. Lots fell in the river, all totally oblivious to the passing peniches!
