Saint-Quentin Serenity

Alma, our Adria Vision, slowly meandered to another riverside site yesterday afternoon in the charming town of Saint-Quentin, nestled in the heart of northern France.

We weren’t expecting much – just a quick stopover for the night before continuing our journey slowly north, having seen some other travellers stop, Sue and Trev from poshcats camping here a few weeks ago, it somehow implanted itself in our minds.

But as is often the case with these unplanned detours, Saint-Quentin surprised us with its hidden gem.

This morning, the crisp French air and the melodic clanging of church bells lured us out of Alma.

We wandered through the quaint streets, sunlight dappling through the plane trees, until we emerged into a vast square dominated by the basilica.

Wow !

Words don’t quite do it justice.

The intricate Gothic facade, adorned with countless sculptures and stained glass windows shimmering in the morning light, was breathtaking.

Stepping inside was like entering another world. The soaring nave, bathed in a soft, ethereal glow, hushed our voices to whispers.

Sunlight streamed through the vibrant stained glass windows, casting colorful patterns onto the ancient stone floor.

We spent the next hour mesmerized, marveling at the intricate details, the gargoyles keeping watch from high above, the ornate carvings on the choir stalls, and the sheer scale of the space itself.

The basilica wasn’t just a visual feast; it was a testament to history.

We learned that construction began in the 12th century and spanned over 500 years!

It’s incredible to imagine the generations of artisans who contributed to this architectural masterpiece.

Leaving the basilica, we felt a sense of peace and tranquility.

Saint-Quentin might not have been on our original itinerary, but it turned out to be a hidden gem. Sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones you stumble upon along the way. 

Paul.