France - Day 2

France Day 2, It was medieval history today, and even though it was somewhat romanticized it was fun!! Today we visited Provins, a medieval market town that at one stage was the third largest city in France, which still retains its original stone walls. As a UNESCO protected site Provins promotes itself as a medieval mecca, with shows and events that retain the culture and traditions of that era.
Not only was it a fun day but also informative as we learnt lots about the money changers, merchants and craft guilds of that time, and also how the market place worked. The walls themselves were extensive and the town rich in history.
We treated ourselves to a 'Legends of the Knights' show that highlighted the trades, history, military prowess, chivalry and romance from that time, something the children will remember for a long time as it had it all - drama, action, humor, music and to the girls delight, beautiful horses and some romance.

The wall around the city is still complete, which is quite incredible as it was built in the 1200's

Static displays of the stall holders and craftsmen with a detailed audio guide for each display, very informative and well done.

Wonderfully quaint french streets and buildings, even a shop with the same name as Mum!!!



















Part of the 'Legends of the Knights' show, displaying how the goods came to market, even though everything was in French we still could make sense of the story.  Even a number of working replica trébuchet, one of which was used during the show.

Horsemanship and chivalry on display

        A little jousting was
            also included.

A show featuring knights must of course 
include some bad dudes, the odd battle,
 and some deft swordsmanship.