The 3×5: A New Series, A New Year — Also, Lorraine, France
GUYS. First off, happy 2020! I know I have been ignoring this blog for a long time. In fact, I’ve been ignoring this blog for so long that this blog post is the result of a list that I started so long ago that I’ve lapped the location I’ll be talking about and visited it a third time since I wrote it down as just one of my 16-part list…
But before I get ahead of myself, let me explain the premise and what I want to do here.
I travel a fair amount. I travel to see clients. I travel for speaking events. And we travel as a couple and with our extended family quite a lot. With that in mind, I have (for over a year) been planning this regularly featured series that would feature the five places that I recommend you check out if you have three days in that city/region/whatever.
Discover History Alive and All Around You in Lorraine, France: Crossroads of Europe
You may know that Lorraine, and its neighbor Alsace, were repeatedly occupied both France and Germany. You may even know that Lorraine is the only French region bordered by three other countries (Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany), but did you know that Lorraine’s history stretches back to the ancient Romans when it was a vital crossroads for the Empire?
Lorraine is a region that includes cities such as Nancy and Metz (which I’ll cover in a separate column), but today, I want to focus on some of the amazing historical gems you can visit driving through its countryside.
The Roman Aqueducts
In several places (included this spot just on the side of the highway), you can find the ruins of ancient Roman aqueducts. As an American, I am constantly struck by the incredibly long history of places in Europe and I find myself often marveling at the longevity of ancient structures. A worthy spot to visit!
Hattonchâtel: Up on a Hill
With a breathtaking view over le Parc Naturel Régional de Lorraine (a nature preserve), this tiny village was rebuilt with funding by American Belle Skinner following its destruction during World War I. Its charm and the incredible views across the valley make it easy to understand why she wanted to serve as a patron.
The Abbey of Saint-Mihiel
The Benedictine abbey of Saint-Mihiel has a spectacular library constructed in the late 1700s that has a unique collection of incunabula (a type of manuscript). Its Rococo details and the beauty of its condition were truly a sight to behold. Unfortunately, no photography is allowed, so you’ll just have to take my word for it. Or visit for yourself!
“The Sistine Chapel of Sillegny”
In the village of Sillegy, you can find this Medieval church that hides an amazing secret inside. Protected under a layer of concrete for years, the 15th century frescoes were only discovered after a fire that damaged the later layers upon the walls.
Lucky for us!
Place Stanislas
This intact 18th century town square clearly conveys the majesty and power that it was built to represent. Built by Stanislaw I (Stanislas in French) in honor of his son-in-law, Louis XV, this incredible square is still the site of many civic activities, including a huge Christmas tree during the holiday season.
Those are just a few of the places that I highly recommend that you visit while you’re in Lorraine, and I hope you’ll join me next time for my next blog post. I still have 15 places on my initial list to write about!