Carpentras et environs

Carpentras has a really cool cathedral: St. Siffrein. It spreads out in the center of town with a warren of small streets around it and shops and businesses on each side. There is a Roman arch almost attached to one side of the cathedral which was uncovered when the old prison, built up against the cathedral, was taken down.

In the place of the prison is now an open, sunny square with a playground and benches to sit and chat with friends passing by. 

A symbol of Carpentras is the strawberry because this area produces a most delicious one "la garrigette" for which they have a festival. Even the playground by St. Sifferein has a bouncy strawberry to ride on for children after they are done with the castle fortress.

There may be sunshine here but there is also frequent wind. Not the strong Mistral today but still "hair raising!"

Carpentras has been undergoing much renewal in recent years. Attractive playgrounds and parks have been created and old, decrepit buildings have been taken down to reveal, in some parts of the city, the remains of the medieval city wall which wrapped around the pedestrian mall and cathedral area. There still exists the Porte d'Orange which is a tall, stone medieval gate tower that opens into the walled city...only one car at a time can drive through.

I enjoy the pleasant stroll through town without having to worry about cars zooming by.

 This is right next to the playground by the cathedral.
There is also nearby a glass covered gallery about two blocks long lined with shops and boutiques. This is the first time I have seen cars in the gallery but Monday must be delivery day, many places are closed.

The more I walk around here the more renewed places I see. I like the shape and colors of these two buildings. Looks so nice with the blue sky. There is often a black cat sitting in the window of the yellow house on the right. The red shutters on the left have just gotten a new coat of paint.

 This is part of the cultural center and conservatory of music and beaux arts.

I think it is time for me to go have some of those famous strawberries!! before they are all gone.