Visit Poitiers France : 3 must-sees !
Poitiers, a historic city located in western France, is a captivating destination known for its rich heritage and architectural beauty. The city’s historical significance is evident in its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings, which are spread throughout the town. The heart of Poitiers features charming narrow streets, picturesque squares, and timber-framed houses that transport visitors to another era. The city’s historical center is anchored by the impressive Notre-Dame la Grande church, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture with intricate sculptures adorning its façade.
One of Poitiers’ most famous attractions is the Palais des Comtes de Poitou-Ducs d’Aquitaine, also known as the Palais des Ducs d’Aquitaine. This grand palace, built in the 12th century, served as the residence of the Counts of Poitou and the Dukes of Aquitaine. Today, it houses the city hall and offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s medieval history. Poitiers is also renowned for its educational institutions, with the University of Poitiers dating back to the Middle Ages, making it one of the oldest universities in Europe.
Beyond its historical treasures, Poitiers is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the scenic Vienne River that flows through the city. The city’s combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and natural charm makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a taste of France’s rich history and culture.
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The cathedral and the old district from Poitiers France
The cathedral and the old district of Poitiers, France, are two of the city’s most captivating and historically significant areas.
The Cathedral of Saint-Pierre: Poitiers is home to the stunning Cathedral of Saint-Pierre, an architectural masterpiece that showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. This magnificent cathedral dates back to the 12th century and boasts an intricate façade adorned with sculpted details. Inside, visitors can admire the impressive stained glass windows, the grand nave, and the beautifully carved choir stalls. The cathedral’s historical and artistic significance makes it a must-visit site for anyone exploring Poitiers.
The Old District (Le Quartier Ancien): Poitiers’ old district is a charming and atmospheric area that transports visitors back in time. With its winding medieval streets, timber-framed houses, and quaint squares, this district exudes an authentic historic ambiance. A highlight of the old district is the central Place Charles de Gaulle, surrounded by historic buildings and cafés where you can relax and soak in the surroundings. As you stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter numerous boutiques, artisan shops, and traditional restaurants. The old district is not only a visual delight but also a place where you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture.
Together, the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre and the old district of Poitiers offer a captivating journey through time, allowing visitors to appreciate the city’s architectural heritage and its vibrant historical character.
Taste Local Products from Poitiers France
Broyé du Poitou
Poitiers, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France, is known for its rich culinary heritage and a variety of delicious local products. Here are some of the notable local products you can find in Poitiers and the surrounding region:
Poitou Charentes Cheeses: The region of Poitou-Charentes, which includes Poitiers, is renowned for its cheese production. Look out for the famous goat cheese known as “Chabichou du Poitou,” a creamy and slightly tangy cheese with a distinctive wrinkled rind. Another notable cheese from the region is “mogette de Vendée,” a type of white bean that is often used in traditional dishes.
Pineau des Charentes: This sweet and fortified wine is a specialty of the region. It is made by blending fresh grape juice with Cognac and then aging it to create a unique and flavorful apéritif. Pineau des Charentes comes in both red and white varieties and is often enjoyed chilled before a meal.
Cognac: While not exclusive to Poitiers, Cognac is a famous brandy that originates from the surrounding region of Charente, which is nearby. Poitiers is a great place to explore the world of Cognac, and you can find various distilleries and cellars offering tours and tastings of this iconic spirit.
“Broyé du Poitou” is a traditional French pastry from the Poitou region. In English, it can be referred to as “Poitou Shortbread” or “Poitou Crushed Cookie.” This pastry is characterized by its rich, buttery, and crumbly texture, often shaped like a large, thick cookie or a disc. It’s typically flavored with vanilla and can sometimes have a hint of orange blossom water.
“Broyé du Poitou” is known for its simplicity and is traditionally broken into pieces rather than cut, which is where its name comes from (broyé means “crushed” or “broken” in French). It’s a delightful treat often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee and is a favorite dessert in the Poitou-Charentes region of France.
On the Eleanor of Aquitaine’s footsteps
Eleanor of Aquitaine is a historical figure closely associated with both the region of Aquitaine and the city of Poitiers in France. She was one of the most influential and powerful women of the Middle Ages.
Eleanor of Aquitaine was born in 1122 in the Duchy of Aquitaine, which covered a significant part of what is now southwestern France, including Poitiers. She became the Duchess of Aquitaine through inheritance and later, through marriage, became the Queen of France as the wife of King Louis VII and then the Queen of England as the wife of King Henry II. Her marriages had significant political and territorial implications, as she brought vast territories, including Aquitaine, into the hands of the English crown.
Eleanor of Aquitaine was not only a queen but also a prominent figure in the cultural and intellectual life of her time. She played a key role in the patronage of troubadours and poets, contributing to the flourishing of courtly love poetry in the region. Poitiers, as one of the major cities in Aquitaine, was a center for this cultural and artistic activity.
Eleanor’s association with Poitiers is further strengthened by her connection to the Poitiers Cathedral, as she and her first husband, Louis VII, were married there in 1137. The cathedral, dedicated to Saint Peter, is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture and remains a significant historical and architectural landmark in Poitiers.
In summary, Eleanor of Aquitaine’s life and reign were deeply intertwined with the region of Aquitaine, including Poitiers, and her influence had a lasting impact on the history, culture, and politics of this part of France.
Book your history tour of Poitiers : on the Eleanor of Aquitaine’s footsteps
Paul
