France-iversary part 3 Montpellier

Montpellier was the last stop of our journey across southern France, and we were absolutely charmed by the city's elegance, beauty, and grandeur.

We happened upon a mesmerizing art installation, "Adventice" by street artist, JR, exhibited in Carré Sainte-Anne, a decommissioned cathedral. In the center of the sanctuary stood a tree covered with more than 10,000 "leaves" (photocopies of hands submitted by people from around the world). 

Adventice references a lesser-known part of the city’s past, when imported wool from Spain and North Africa brought foreign seeds that flourished locally and led to France’s first botanical garden. 

The term comes from Latin "advenire", meaning “to come from outside,” and refers to plants once considered invasive but now valued for boosting biodiversity, enriching soil, and supporting pollinators - like cornflowers and poppies, which have become symbols of the French countryside.

Another serendipitous find...the aqueduct-adjacent flea market. Quintessentially French and chock-full of myriad trinkets and treasures, yet somehow we walked away empty-handed.

Of course there were more pastries, more street (and tromp L'oeil) art, and more Christmas markets. We also had quite a few laughs on the stairs of our hotel.

Our time exploring southern France was spectacular, and we're grateful to have experienced these special places. Thanks for following along. Sending all y'all so much love.

 🇫🇷  🚄 🥐 🍰 🌳🕍