Monday, 28 September

This morning we drove through the countryside to Cluny, the site of a

Benedictine abbey that was established in 910. It was small at first, with just 6 monks, but it reported directly to the pope, grew rapidly, and became wealthy. It was motherhouse of over 1000 monasteries, which became the Clunic order. It went into decline and eventually its stonework became a quarry for local builders.

The town was fascinating, and we saw the remains that still stand of the huge cathedral that was on the grounds as well as reproductions of the old grandeur, and relics that were uncovered by archaeologists. Our guide, Francoise, was amazing. She also told us the story of the local resistance movement during World War II, and the bombing of the town in August 1944. The Nazi officer, Klaus Barbie (the butcher of Lyon) was responsible for much grief in the area. We’ve heard about him several times on our tours. On the way to and from Cluny

we passed many vineyards. The harvest was very early this year because of the very hot, dry summer. Apparently this means a lower yield, but higher quality wine. In the afternoon, most people went on a wine-tasting tour (this is Burgundy after all!), while the rest of us stayed on board and napped and/or watched the scenery as we cruised to our next stop.

All Photos of the day