After a smooth landing in France on March 3rd, our 9th Grade travelers—21 energetic students, 2 Senior TAs, and 4 adult chaperones—hit the ground running with an unforgettable first taste of French history. Before settling into their home stays in Orléans this evening, we ventured to the Château de Chambord, a jewel of the Loire Valley and a testament to 16th century Renaissance ambition. Commissioned by François Ier in the 16th century as a hunting lodge and symbol of royal power, Chambord marries medieval fortitude with Renaissance elegance and symmetry. Student CC Ragalevsky, who studied Chambord this semester, gave added insight during the visit. We spoke as a class (and then heard from a tour guide) about François Ier’s and Leonardo da Vinci’s mutual affection; and that theme will return prominently when we visit Amboise next week.
Tonight, after (only somewhat timid) laughs and greetings with their homestay hosts in Orléans, the rhythms of daily life in France begin in earnest—rooted in the past, and alive in the present.
Please scroll down to view pictures from the day:
