srettig24 What a way to spend Christmas Eve, I was able to go sightseeing in La Rochelle and had a lovely time. Although the weather was wet and cold; there was still some Christmas cheer. I had some hot mulled wine. I had never had it before and I was converted- it tasted like hot spicy sangria. What’s not to love about that?
L’Hotel de ville de La Rochelle
This building used to be the town hall of La Rochelle. Built-in 1628 and 1748 and became a historical monument in 1861. Heavy restoration occurred in the 19th century. In 2013, an electrical fire destroyed the historic parts of the building and restorations were complete in 2019. The stone work was very beautiful, and I didn’t mind the holiday decorations.
Outdoor Market
Wowza. Was this outdoor market busyyyy. People were hustl’in, they were busl’in. It was Christmas Eve and people were buying everything they needed for Christmas dinner. I have never seen so much seafood! I could not get over how bright and healthy vegetables looked in December. There was vegetables that I had never seen before as well. You could also find cuts of meat, herbs, etc. In the photo on the right, you can see the blue indoor market behind all the tents of the outdoor market. In the photo on the left, you can see a tuba! There was a little band of older men playing Christmas music which added to the atmosphere.
The white streets even with the gloomy weather really captured my attention.
Street Art
You all know I go completely wild for street art. The art in La Rochelle was awesome. And seemed to be very encouraged by the city as it is very visible in the downtown area. the buildings are abandoned but have awesome primarily blue art. Some of the work has been done by world-famous street artists which makes it a must-see if heading to La Rochelle. While the weather wasn’t the best the vibrant work really uplifts the surroundings.
