We had the great pleasure of meeting up with a colleague in Orleans for lunch and a quick sightseeing tour on our way from Paris to Amboise.
Orleans has a wonderful history but is probably best known for the rise to fame of Joan of Arc. She defended the city from the British at about 16 years of age. There is a large monument to her in the city centre.
The streets have a tramway through the centre. I've also been to New Orleans and I can see the similarities in the French quarter with its architecture and tram line.
The gothic Church is impressive with its space and light. I particularly enjoyed the stained glass windows retelling the story of Joan of Arc.
The architecture of the buildings in the centre of Orleans have been restored to their original glory.
Here's my lovely wife in the streets of Orleans.
Finally we visited the bridge where Joan of Arc successfully defended Orleans from attack.
There were potted flowers scattered through the city for spring. Orleans is a really beautiful town, its worth seeing if you get the chance.
