Limoges

Limoges is a pleasant if unspectacular city that produced enamelware in the Middle Ages and fine china from the 18^th century.

After parking the car in a multi-storey clearly designed for bubble cars, we start our walk-about in the cathedral grounds. The cathedral itself dates from 1273 but has been subject to much piecemeal amendment, so isn’t an outstanding end result, although it takes a nice enough photo.

 The gardens are laid out in a formal manner divided by paths which is ideal for people strolling. Beyond the hedge on the right is a parapet overlooking the river Vienne. It’s a relaxing space in a busy city.

Another part of the grounds is planted with herbs and shrubs, all neatly labelled, and then small trees and bushes. It’s been well thought out and adds variety and interest.

Up next to the cathedral is the Bishop’s Palace that houses the fine arts museum. It’s a handsome building with an external sculpture exhibition one item of which can be seen in the right foreground.

It’s difficult to make out what the sculpture is and there are 74 of them all in the same gloomy vein. They all depict skeletal figures in various poses of anguish. They’re all by a much acclaimed sculptor called Marc Petit.

A close-up, this is entitled “Quarantine”. So if you’re feeling low, definitely don’t go for a stroll near the bishop’s palace in Limoges.

It’s a happier story in the old town where they’ve got the flags out for a festival. These medieval buildings look like they're part of a fairy story.

 More up to date is the Hotel de Ville, or Town Hall, about 150 years old. It looks more like a chateau than a municipal building, and is set in lovely gardens as the photo shows.

The fountain on the left bears closer examination, as it is made with enamelling in honour of Limoges heritage of enamelware. It really is beautifully turned out.

We are in France, so it’s appropriate to insert a photo of what takes place daily in every village, town and city: the game of boules. Here they’ve just finished their shots and are determining (or disputing) who’s won.

The Limoges area, the Limousin, was once a byword for easy living and prosperity, hence the name limousine for a luxury car. Today it’s a workaday city with an interesting old town and is no doubt an agreeable place to live.