Historical Graffiti in the Loire Valley

Because the local limestone (Fr. tuffeau) is so soft it is ripe for graffiti of all sorts. One of the most striking we've seen recently is a long and anguished inscription on a stone in a rural wall. It refers to a flood in the mid-19th century as a scourge sent by God and hopes that in the future people living along the river do not have to witness the 'precious treasure' of their river valley disappear under water. Sadly that 19th century wish has not come true and there have been several major floods in the 21st century. What an astonishing piece of personal and intimate history that inscription is though?! If you would like to include some historic graffiti in your tour just let us know. We are always delighted to share our local knowledge of historical records that tend to go unnoticed.

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For details of our private guided tours of chateaux, gardens, wineries, markets and more please visit the Loire Valley Time Travel website. We would be delighted to design a tour for you.

We are also on Instagram, so check us out to see a regularly updated selection of our very best photos. You may also like to check out our YouTube channel. 

A Review From Heather

 In July I had the pleasure of guiding for a group of Americans who have been friends since school. They were kind enough to leave a nice review.

"We spent a day with Susan combining Chateau Ambois and then finishing with Chenonceau. Susan gave wonderful instructions ahead of time to ensure our day went smoothly. How and when to by tickets, directions and location of meeting and then planning a lunch in between to keep us going. We learned a lot and were able to relax knowing that we were in good hands. Thank you Susan!"

Thank you Heather and friends!

History of Tobacco Usage in the Loire Valley

The first tobacco shops in France opened in 1716. Over a century earlier the French ambassador to Portugal, Jean Nicot, had introduced it to France and grew it in his own garden. He gave powdered tobacco (snuff) to Catherine de Medici, to give to her son François II to cure his migraines in 1560. At the time, tobacco was often called the 'Queen's herb' or 'Nicot's herb', and considered medicinal and drunk as a tisane (herbal tea).

 

In the apothecary at the Chateau de Chenonceau there are several pots for storing tobacco for pharmaceutical purposes. If you are interested in medical history, then book a tour with us that includes Chenonceau as we can talk about not just the developments in medicine in the 16th century, but also the early 20th century, inspired by objects from the collection at this remarkable chateau. 

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For details of our private guided tours of chateaux, gardens, wineries, markets and more please visit the Loire Valley Time Travel website. We would be delighted to design a tour for you.

We are also on Instagram, so check us out to see a regularly updated selection of our very best photos. You may also like to check out our YouTube channel.