1009, 2012

Saint Jean de Cole, France

World Cities & Harbors
494

Full version of the single song episodes featured here, in our Media Library showcase, are available to watch free on the eScapes’ Xumo Lifestyle Channel # 452 Surrounded by lush hills and filled with historic architecture, the village of St. Jean de Cole is widely appreciated as one of the most beautiful in France. While the village holds many quaint restaurants, hotels, shops, schools, and offices, its standout buildings, seen in this eScapes video, are the Chateau de la Marthonie and the medieval church of St. Jean Baptiste. With such beautiful scenery and a population of only about 350 people, Saint Jean de Cole is a great destination for a relaxing getaway. Gregg Karukas is a

2404, 2012

Paris (Eiffel Tower & Arc de Triomphe)

Paris has a reputation as the most romantic city on the planet, and it’s easy to understand why. Whether it’s a ride down the River Seine, a walk through the Louvre Museum, or a twilight picnic at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the greatest sights of Paris seem designed for two. Known as the “City of Light” for its role in the Enlightenment, Paris is one of the world’s foremost cultural centers: a giant in fashion, food, and the arts. This eScapes scene features two of Paris’ most famous landmarks: the Eiffel Tower, originally built as the entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair, and the Arc de Triomphe, decorated with scenes from French military history.

1304, 2012

Château Margaux, France

Full version of the single song episodes featured here, in our Media Library showcase, are available to watch free on the eScapes’ Xumo Lifestyle Channel # 452 Bordeaux’s Chateau Margaux is one of the most prestigious wine producers in France. Though its history dates back to the 12th century, it wasn’t until the 1570s that the grounds were used as a vineyard. The beautiful chateau itself wasn’t built until the 19th century but it’s already become a French historical monument, as well as a monument to the French winemaking tradition. Chateau Margaux wines are known throughout the world and have a price to match their reputation. In 2011, bottles of Margaux ranged from $225 to $2,400.

0702, 2012

Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux

Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux is one example of the stunning gothic cathedrals found throughout France. This cathedral dates back to at least 1096 AD, but much of its striking architecture was added over the next 400 years. The cathedral’s twin bell towers on the north facade, featured prominently in this eScapes video, are highlights of the building’s exterior. Four bell towers were initially planned, but only two were constructed due to concerns over the building’s weight and the risk of it sinking into the ground. The Cathédrale Saint-André, sometimes more simply known as Bordeaux Cathedral, has been witness to nearly a thousand years of history. In 1137, Eleanor of Aquitaine and Louis VII were married in

0901, 2012

Bordeaux, France

World Cities & Harbors
408

Maybe best known for its wine, the city of Bordeaux, France is also famous for its architecture. One of the largest concentrations of 18th century buildings in all of Europe, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a reputation as “the city of art and history.” In this sample video, eScapes shows you why Bordeaux is a perfect destination for sightseeing or a relaxing afternoon stroll along the Garonne. A couple of attractions included in this video are the Pont de Pierre bridge and the nearby Porte de Bourgogne gate. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Pont de Pierre has seventeen arches to commemorate the emperor: either his seventeen military victories, or the seventeen

1510, 2011

Château de Beynac, France

World Cities & Harbors
355

There are many villages along the Dordogne River and many castles in the former Périgord province of France, but the Château de Beynac is one of the most impressive. Perched on a cliff over the river, this château was first built in the 12th century and continuously upgraded and strengthened over the centuries by different owners. In addition to the fortress’ obvious external defenses, the interior of the castle is designed for defense as well, with features like narrow stairways that only allow visitors to ascend in single-file. In modern times, the château is open to visitors and kept in a similar state to how it was in medieval times. Cindy Bradley is an award-winning jazz