At Beynac, as in all the medieval towns and fortresses in the southwest, I feel the toil of centuries of peasants who quarried, hauled, carved, and placed the tons of stone required to build these immense fortifications.

Avignon, France

Structures carved into a cliff, over, and abutting cave dwellings create a strong impression above the Dordogne River.

The ochers and warm colored facades contrast sharply with the blue sky.

Nice remains a living town, versus merely a tourist destination. Witness the charm of seeing "red and pinks" laundry hanging on the line.

Azure and turquoise waters have had a lifelong allure for me, and I make trips to see famous examples, like these.

Heavenly Light

Sarlat, France

Cahors, France

Jardins d'Eyrignac, France

Jardins de Marqueyssac, France

Palais des Papes, Avignon, France

A thousand year old Cistercian monastery produces Chartreuse, a green-yellow liqueur concocted with over one hundred herbs.

Final Moments

Towards the ight

Power and Peace

Somebody's watching

Colorful and practical delivery

Light and mystery

Foreboding

Last stop in France on Camino Santiago de Compostella

Stone and Sky Perspective