The Daily Diary of a Wandering Restaurateur
Nolay
I took the first two photos of Les Halles, the market hall in Nolay, on our first visit back in the spring of 2001. (You can tell because the sun is out!) They give you a good idea of the incredible structure of this building. It was built in the 14th century, so the massive chestnut beams have been standing for 700 years or so! But we all start to sag with age and the new bracing seems to indicate that gravity has taken its toll on even a classic construction such as Les Halles. At least they are taking proactive steps to preserve the structure.
Like our favorite Italian hill town, Montepulciano, the word that most describes Nolay to me is "texture" -- ancient stones, rought wood, massive timbers. It is all very medieval ... and difficult feeling to capture in a photo, particularly on a cloudy day. I'll keep trying.
The climbing Santas show up everywhere in France -- a little tacky perhaps, but they certainly has more class than inflatable snowmen!
© 2010 Restaurant Doctor
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