One of the most fascinating things I have ever seen in France is the scenery. The first time I was in France, I was studying in Avignon, Provence. When my program was completed, I headed to the suburbs of Paris to meet up with my long-time friend, Delphine. She and her family were so gracious to show me around Paris and the suburbs. Our tour included the Palace of Versailles, the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, mass at Notre Dame and so many other sites. One of my favorite things in their home town of Louveciennes was the artists that had spent time there.  Namely, Pissarro and Sisley, impressionists that painted the buildings of Louveciennes. The fascinating thing is the sites still look very much the same plus a few modern additions. A replica of the painting is placed near the site in the perspective that is supposed to be that of the artist.

I am not a fan of impressionism, actually, but I am a fan of these postings around Paris. Its a surreal occasion when you stand at the altar in Notre Dame where Napoléon crowned himself, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed and where artists found their muse.

Mansion in Louveciennes

Baudot's impression of the same mansion

House and yard in Louveciennes

Pissarro's depiction of the same house