The town of Limoges, in France’s center (west-ish), is well known for the fine porcelain that bears the same name.  An old town (it was founded around 50 B.C. by -guess who- the Romans), it sits in the region of Limousin, sort of east and north from the Bordeaux region.  In fact, we stopped in Limoges on our way to Bordeaux from Paris!

We went out for a walk and a quick lunch as we had limited time – which was a bummer because it would have been worth exploring more.  But in crossing the river we ran into the the Way to Santiago – one of the many routes followed since medieval times by people making the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, in northwestern Spain, where St. James is buried.  Pretty neat and lucky discovery as one of my travel companions had done the Camino a few years before (check out his very informative website – and great video – here)!  This bridge is Saint Martial‘s bridge which dates from the 13th century but built on the ruins of a Roman bridge.

Since the Middle Ages people have been following the way to St. James! (Santiago)

The building top left over the city walls is an arts museum. The city’s cathedral is to its right

These bricks have been the way for pilgrims for centuries!

Though we did not explore as we would have liked to, the architecture of the town was clearly charming (e.g., the city hall), owing to centuries of habitation.

Next time, Limoges, I will pay you your due!