Reflections of France

 

We’ve been back home for nearly a week now, and as I reflect on our experience, three things leave lasting impressions, some newly formed, some altered and some reinforced.

Everything is much older. History is much longer than ours. Villages, towns and cities and their infrastructure is ancient but enduring. Culture and traditions are more firmly ingrained, more stable and mature. In many respects, modern life is very similar to ours in Canada but thriving within the framework of a much older society. As an example, the commercial centre of Rodez boasts all the amenities, the shopping and entertainment of a modern, progressive city all nicely framed in the preserved grandeur of a medieval town.

As a native of southern Ontario, I felt quite at home in the Aveyron countryside. But for the fact that Aveyron is hillier, there are many similarities; the lush green foliage, the big deciduous trees, the many rivers and streams and the climate.

The cars are small. With gasoline and diesel pricing as it is, it’s not surprising. But it also indicates to me that the French are more accustomed to and comfortable with smaller vehicles. The absence of big cars, SUV’s and pick-up trucks was very apparent.

Enough of that. Following are some pictures; in fact, more reflections.

I begin with this scene taken along le Dourdou, near the village of Conques. The weir is situated adjacent to an old mill that derived its power from the river’s current.

This next scene was photographed from the bridge crossing the Aveyron River near the small village of Les Planqués.

I think this is an interesting combination of shading and reflections in a scene featuring two bridges in the town of Villefranche de Rouergues.

Another old stone bridge, this one across the Aveyron at Belcastel.

One final picture, this one also taken at Villefranche des Rouergues.

I look forward to sharing some photographs of my favourite village scenes in an upcoming post. Remember, Aveyron is known for its quaint old villages.