Le Puy

Daytrip to Le Puy-en-Velay: a small city described by Frommer’s guidebook as "one of the most extraordinary sights in France."  Le Puy, originally founded by a cult of the Virgin Mary, is one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in France.  When we first arrived, it seemed as though the whole city was gathered around the morning market, with gaggles of children running amuck and parents drinking wine on the sunny morning terraces.  The city was lively and filled with the sound of market hagglers and street musicians.  It was around noon when the market was packed up and the city transformed into an eerie ghost town.  I have no idea where everyone went (maybe there was a cult gathering) but in the span of about 10 minutes the streets became silent and empty.  Empty except for us, the American tourists of course.

crazy French man drinking on the steps

a new take on yard sales

These musicians were being tipped with apples from the market

and then the people disappeared

outside of The Cathedral Notre Dame du Puy

Bronze statue, the Notre-Dame de France, made out of 213 Russian Cannons 

I don't think this is quite how the statue was intended to be appreciated.  That is my head sticking out behind the Virgin Mary's knee

Cathedral of Notre-Dame

Saint Michel d'Aiguilhe Chapel

view of the city as seen from the Sanctuary of Saint Joseph d'Espaly