I had not tasted roasted chestnuts since our stay in Sevilla, Spain, early in our 2013 journey. Today, I found them in Avignon, France. They taste just as they did in Sevilla–soft, warm, nutty, sweet. The vendor served them from a large shallow kettle kept hot by an open flame. Since we were walking towards the Palace of the Popes to get a view in the soothing evening air before darkness set in, I asked the vendor how late he was open: “Seven,” he replied. We arrived back around six, and he said to me with a smile that it was not seven yet and he could not sell me any!

Avignon is a place of wonderful history and classic French architecture. The Palace of the Popes and city fortifications are classic French gothic. The old center blends into a tapestry that is muted in color, yet rich in detail. As the bright pink sky hovered over the ancient city walls and towers, I could imagine that those who lived here centuries ago found it as breathtaking as I. WEG

Avignon, France – The city ramparts

Avignon, France – The Palace of the Popes

Avignon, France – The Place de L’horloge

Avignon, France – Sunset, November 7, 2013