Exploring the Cathedrals of Tours and Poitiers
On my way to Blois, I couldn't resist stopping by Tours and Poitiers, recalling the historic Battle of Tours-Poitiers—a must for any history enthusiast. Among the highlights of my visit were the magnificent cathedrals in these cities.
⛪️ The Poitiers Cathedral, built during the era of Eleanor of Aquitaine (12th century), who was both Queen of France and England, is a historic gem. Despite its age, the interior is remarkably well-preserved, exuding a timeless charm and beauty.
⛪️ The Tours Cathedral is simply awe-inspiring in scale. Its towering spires, grand nave, and the abundance of stained glass windows reminiscent of Paris's Sainte-Chapelle bathe the interior in light. In fact, visiting Tours Cathedral first might make Sainte-Chapelle seem less impressive!
💡 What is the Battle of Tours-Poitiers?
In 732, Charles Martel, the Mayor of the Palace of the Frankish Kingdom, led his forces to repel the advancing Islamic army of the Umayyad Caliphate from the Iberian Peninsula. This victory halted the expansion of Islamic influence into Western Europe and is often regarded as a decisive battle that safeguarded the Christian world. The exact location of the battle is believed to be near present-day Poitiers, though the precise site remains uncertain.
🤔 Surprisingly, neither city prominently features museums or monuments commemorating this historic battle. Given its significance, the lack of related exhibitions or information was a bit disappointing.
📍 Nevertheless, both cities hold a vital place in French medieval and religious history. Visiting these cathedrals felt like walking through history itself, rather than just sightseeing. If you're interested in history and architecture, these cities make for a worthwhile stop on your way to Paris.
💬 While you might skip Poitiers, Tours is definitely worth a visit!