Discover the Armada of Rouen and the Gothic Splendor of Chartres – A Memorable Trip by Class 65

Title: Class 65 Explores Rouen’s Armada and Chartres Cathedral: A Journey of Discovery

Subtitle: A group of 17 individuals from Class 65 embarked on an unforgettable adventure, exploring the vibrant Armada of Rouen and the awe-inspiring Chartres Cathedral.

Date: June 21, 2023

Byline: [Author Name]

[City], [State] – From June 13 to 16, the members of Class 65 embarked on a leisurely exploration of two captivating tourist towns. With carpooling arrangements and accommodation organized in Chartres by an ex-Creusotine, the group eagerly anticipated their visit to the renowned Armada of Rouen. This popular festival, which takes place every four years, saw the invasion of the quays of the Seine by 44 ships and 2,000 sailors from 11 different nationalities.

The Armada of Rouen, held from June 8 to 18, attracted an enormous crowd of several million spectators. Despite the impressive queues, those who ventured onto the ships were rewarded with the discovery of intricate technical installations, ropes, sails, and living areas. The quays showcased a diverse representation of nationalities, including France, Spain, Poland, Mexico, the Netherlands, Indonesia, and Finland. Sailboats such as Le Bel Espoir, Le Belem, La Licorne, l’Intrépide, and Le Statsraad LehmKuhl captured the imagination of visitors.

The parades held during the Armada were also a major highlight, featuring richly adorned costumes and military precision. All of this unfolded against the grandiose backdrop of the Seine basin, with the impressive Gustave Flaubert lift bridge rising up to 55 meters to accommodate the passage of the tallest ships and sailboats.

Following their time at the Armada, the group dedicated the subsequent days to exploring Chartres, a city renowned for its architectural gem – the Chartres Cathedral. This masterpiece of Gothic art, visible from afar due to its elevated location, boasts two towers, one of which stands at an impressive height of 113 meters. With its 2,600 square meters of stained glass windows and a 130-meter nave, the cathedral has rightfully earned its UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

The stained glass windows of Chartres Cathedral are considered one of the most complete and best-preserved sets from the medieval period (1205 to 1225). Renowned for their vibrant colors, they are particularly famous for the distinctive “Chartres blue.” Unlike the dark Romanesque churches of the time, Gothic art embraced the use of large windows, allowing an abundance of natural light to illuminate the space and serve as an encyclopedia of religious teachings.

Chartres has become a hub for stained glass, housing restoration and creation workshops. The “LOIRE workshops,” located in a 19th-century property, exemplify the craftsmanship and expertise in nearly 1,000 square meters of dedicated space. Each building within the workshop complex specializes in various aspects of stained glass production, including glass slab preparation, coloring, canopy creation, cutting, and painting. The workshops also provide offices and apartments to accommodate artists.

Within the studio’s gardens, “La Vitrailleraie” offers a permanent open-air exhibition of stained glass compositions. These artworks, strategically placed among the trees, along the paths, and on the lawns, reflect the immense creativity of the artists and beautifully capture the rays of the sun. Additionally, Chartres showcases its heritage through the “Chartres en lumière” operation, where 20 sites in the old town are illuminated at night, including churches, washhouses, bridges, facades, and monuments. These illuminations are accompanied by captivating scenographies that highlight the historical and cultural significance of these locations.

The four days spent exploring Rouen’s Armada and Chartres Cathedral were filled with sunshine, unforgettable experiences, and cherished memories for the participants of Class 65. This journey of discovery allowed them to immerse themselves in the rich history, architectural marvels, and cultural treasures of these two remarkable destinations.

For more information on the LOIRE workshops, please visit: [https://www.ateliers-loire.fr/fr/index.php](https://www.ateliers-loire.fr/fr/index.php)

To learn more about the “Chartres en lumière” operation, visit: [https://www.chartresenlumieres.com/fr](https://www.chartresenlumieres.com/fr)

chartres cathedral stained glass

Light to fill the space. This created a breathtaking visual experience for the visitors of Chartres Cathedral.

During their visit, the members of Class 65 had the opportunity to explore the interior of the cathedral and appreciate its architectural marvels up close. They marveled at the intricate stone carvings, the imposing stained glass windows, and the awe-inspiring vaulted ceilings. The group also had the chance to learn about the historical significance of the cathedral and its role as a pilgrimage site in medieval times.

Outside the cathedral, the city of Chartres offered a charming atmosphere with its narrow streets, quaint shops, and lively cafes. The group enjoyed leisurely strolls through the picturesque town, taking in the medieval architecture and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. They also took the opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine, sampling delicious regional dishes and savoring the famous Chartres wine.

Overall, the journey of Class 65 to Rouen’s Armada and Chartres Cathedral was a truly unforgettable experience. From witnessing the spectacular Armada festival with its impressive ships and maritime traditions to exploring the magnificent Chartres Cathedral and immersing themselves in the rich history and culture of the city, the group members gained a deep appreciation for these iconic landmarks. This journey of discovery undoubtedly left a lasting impression, enriching their knowledge and understanding of France’s rich heritage.