Exploring Bourges: A Hidden French Gem, Episode 517

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Categories: Loire Valley, Off the Beaten Track in France

This episode features our frequent and very popular guest Elyse Rivin. If you enjoy her episodes, please consider supporting her on Patreon.

Have you heard of Bourges? Most people outside of France haven’t. But this small, historic city in central France is full of surprises. In episode 517 of the Join Us in France podcast, host Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin dive into the rich history, culture, and charm of Bourges, a town often overlooked by international visitors but beloved by the French. Hotel recommended in this episode: Best Western Plus Hôtel d'Angleterre.

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Thinking About Exploring Bourges?

Bourges is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located 245 kilometers south of Paris, it’s in the Cher department, close to the geographic center of France. While many people think of the Loire Valley or Burgundy when they think of central France, Bourges offers its own blend of history, beautiful architecture, and cultural attractions.

In the episode, Annie shares her first impressions after visiting Bourges with her husband. She describes it as a lovely town with a rich past and vibrant present. Although they only had a few hours to explore, Annie was struck by its pleasant atmosphere and historical significance. Elyse provides valuable background on the city’s role in French history, particularly during the Hundred Years' War.

Bourges and Its Famous Music Festival

If you’ve heard of Bourges, it might be thanks to the Printemps de Bourges music festival. Elyse explains that this popular event, held every spring, draws visitors from all over France. The festival spans several days and offers a wide variety of music, from big-name headliners to indie bands. It’s not just for one demographic—people of all ages can enjoy this celebration of music.

But if festivals aren’t your thing, Bourges has plenty more to offer.

A Royal City with a Fascinating Past

Bourges was once a royal city, especially important during the 1300s and 1400s. Elyse explains that Jean, Duke of Berry, one of the sons of King Jean II, played a key role in the city’s development. Jean was an incredibly loyal figure in French history and one of the wealthiest nobles of his time. He helped make Bourges a thriving cultural hub during the Middle Ages.

Jean, Duke of Berry, is best known for commissioning some of the most famous Books of Hours, which were luxurious prayer books often decorated with intricate, illuminated manuscripts. In fact, one of the most famous, "The Very Rich Hours of the Duke of Berry," is a masterpiece of medieval art. Elyse and Annie discuss how these books reflect the wealth and cultural sophistication of Bourges during its golden age.

Exploring the Landmarks of Bourges

If you visit Bourges, you’ll want to start with the city’s two major landmarks: Bourges Cathedral and the Palais Jacques Coeur.

- Bourges Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It’s known for its impressive height, beautiful carvings, and lack of a transept, which makes it unique compared to other cathedrals in France. Annie shares her experience visiting the cathedral and highlights the guided tours offered by local volunteers.

- The Palais Jacques Coeur is another must-see. This grand mansion, built by Jacques Coeur, a wealthy merchant and royal financier, stands as a symbol of Bourges’ prosperity during the 15th century. Elyse describes Jacques Coeur’s fascinating life and his rise from middle-class fur trader to one of France’s most powerful men.

Food and Wine of Bourges

No visit to Bourges would be complete without tasting some of the local delicacies. Annie touches on a few specialties:

- Pâté Berrichon: A savory pastry filled with pork, veal, and sometimes egg.
- Crottin de Chavignol: A famous goat cheese produced near the town of Sancerre, just a short drive from Bourges.
- Sancerre Wine: If you’re a wine lover, don’t miss a visit to nearby Sancerre to taste its world-renowned white wines.

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Discussed in this Episode

• Bourges
• Printemps de Bourges Music Festival
• Bourges Cathedral
• Palais Jacques Coeur
• Guédelon Castle
• Le Jardin de l'Archêveché
• Sancerre
• Chavignol
• Musée du Berry
• La Pasta (Italian restaurant in Bourges)

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Let's Review

Bourges may not have the towering mountains or coastal beauty of other French destinations, but it’s packed with history, culture, and local charm. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply exploring a less touristy part of France, Bourges should be on your list.

Annie and Elyse give listeners a deep dive into this hidden gem of central France, and their lively conversation will inspire you to visit Bourges for yourself. Listen to the full episode of Join Us in France for even more details and personal stories.

More episodes about going off the beaten track in France

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Categories: Loire Valley, Off the Beaten Track in France