Sightseeing in Victoria BC

Sightseeing in Victoria BC

Off-the-beaten-path Victoria tours

Star Sightseeing ensures you're immersed in the festive spirit, making your winter visit truly special. Learn more about Sightseeing in Victoria BC here Star Sightseeing has designed their materials with you in mind, ensuring every direction is clear and easy to follow. Lean more about Sightseeing Tour Victoria here. Now that you're excited about a customized journey, booking your adventure with Star Sightseeing Tour Sightseeing in Victoria BC is a straightforward process. Signing up for their newsletter or following them on social media could snag you an exclusive deal, making your adventure even more rewarding.
They're not just drivers; they're your personal guide, ready to share insights into Sightseeing in Victoria BC's rich history and vibrant culture. Whether it's incorporating kid-friendly activities, finding the most romantic sunset spots, or seeking out the best local eateries, your tour is tailor-made to ensure satisfaction. From the bustling streets of Melbourne to the serene beauty of the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley's inviting vineyards, and the enchanting wildlife of Phillip Island, there's a slice of paradise for every type of traveler.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC - Off-the-beaten-path Victoria tours

  1. Best tour operators in Victoria
  2. Victoria 4x4 adventure tours
  3. Best viewpoints in Victoria
  4. Victoria senior-friendly sightseeing
  5. Victoria suburbs sightseeing
  6. Victoria hiking tours
  7. North Victoria sightseeing tours
  8. Victoria underground tours
  9. Victoria paranormal tours
  10. Victoria photography tours
  11. Victoria waterfront tours
  12. Sightseeing Victoria
  13. Custom sightseeing tours Victoria
  14. Unique Victoria tours
  15. Victoria Chinatown tours
  16. Victoria VIP tours
  17. Victoria whale watching

If you're pressed for time, this condensed yet insightful option is your go-to. We understand that everyone's idea of a perfect trip is different, which is why we're dedicated to creating a personalized experience just for you. Rekindling romance is effortless with Star Sightseeing's bespoke tours tailored for couples seeking a magical escape in Sightseeing in Victoria BC.
You can expect personalized attention from your tour guide, who acts more like a personal concierge, ready to adjust the day's plan on the fly based on your mood or interests. Star Sightseeing's commitment to personalized experiences means you get to explore Sightseeing in Victoria BC on your terms. Imagine having the key to unlock experiences that aren't available to the general public.

As you wander through the bustling streets, you're not just walking; you're stepping into a living, breathing history book. If you're seeking adventure, perhaps a day exploring the rugged coastlines is in order. In this bustling tourist scene, Star Sightseeing offers a unique proposition: customized tours that promise not just to show you the sights but to immerse you in the beauty and diversity of Sightseeing in Victoria BC through experiences tailored specifically to your interests. You'll meet the passionate winemakers, learn about the winemaking process, and, of course, enjoy tastings of award-winning wines. It's more than a walk; it's an immersion into a world where nature and artistry merge seamlessly.

You're encouraged to engage, ask questions, and truly connect with the heritage around you. You'll learn about the rich marine life, from the playful sea otters to the majestic whales that grace these waters. This unique experience is a highlight of Star Sightseeing's guided tour packages, offering you a front-row seat to nature's enchanting performance. They speak of the breathtaking views of the coastline, the lush landscapes that seemed to stretch on forever, and the knowledgeable guide who seemed to know every hidden gem in the city.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC - Indigenous cultural tours Victoria

  1. Victoria tour packages
  2. Victoria sightseeing recommendations
  3. Victoria sightseeing tickets
  4. Victoria helicopter tours
  5. Victoria local tour guides
  6. Victoria walking tours
  7. Victoria snorkeling tours
  8. Victoria heritage tours
  9. Victoria ghost tours
  10. Victoria brewery tours
  11. Victoria travel tips
  12. Victoria wine tours
  13. Victoria ski resort tours
  14. Old Town Victoria tours
  15. Victoria snowboard tours
  16. Victoria spring sightseeing
  17. Victoria cruise tours


You're not just a tourist; you're a traveler eager to taste the authentic dishes that locals cherish. Star Sightseeing is committed to providing a seamless and enriching travel experience, so you can focus on making memories that will last a lifetime. These tours aren't just about seeing; they're about experiencing the heart and soul of the city. With Star Sightseeing, you're not just visiting destinations; you're immersing in an exclusive travel experience that redefines luxury.

You'll wander through markets brimming with local artisans' works, each piece telling a story of Sightseeing in Victoria BC's rich heritage and innovative future. This era, starting in the 1850s, transformed Ballarat from a small sheep station to a bustling city with the discovery of gold. Imagine cruising through Sightseeing in Victoria BC's breathtaking landscapes, enveloped in comfort that rivals your living room.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC - Victoria Chinatown tours

  • Victoria brewery tours
  • Victoria travel tips
  • Victoria wine tours
  • Victoria ski resort tours
  • Old Town Victoria tours
  • Victoria snowboard tours
  • Victoria spring sightseeing
  • Victoria cruise tours
  • Victoria fall sightseeing
  • Victoria multi-day tours
  • Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing
  • Victoria architecture tours
  • Victoria day trips
  • Victoria sightseeing bus
  • Victoria seaplane tours
  • Best places to visit in Victoria
  • Victoria luxury tours
  • Victoria eco tours
  • Victoria Christmas market tours
  • Victoria night tours
From the majestic Parliament Buildings to the picturesque Inner Harbour, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and lesser-known facts that bring these sites to life.

Nature sightseeing in Victoria BC

Named for Queen Victoria, the city is one of the oldest in the Pacific Northwest, with British settlement beginning in 1843. The city has retained a large number of its historic buildings, in particular its two most famous landmarks, the Parliament Buildings (finished in 1897 and home of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia) and the Empress Hotel (opened in 1908). The city's Chinatown is the second oldest in North America, after San Francisco. The region's Coast Salish First Nations peoples established communities in the area long before European settlement, which had large populations at the time of European exploration.

Citations and other links

Sightseeing in Victoria BC’s Best Boat and Harbor Tours

It's a thrilling way to bond and immerse yourself in the wild heart of Sightseeing in Victoria BC. These aren't experiences you can just stumble upon; they're curated especially for you. Victoria boat tours From bustling markets filled with fresh, locally-sourced produce to cozy cafes where baristas know their patrons by name, you'll feel the genuine warmth and hospitality that's characteristic of this region. After exploring Sightseeing in Victoria BC's iconic landmarks, it's time to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture that truly defines the city's spirit.

Whether you're celebrating a milestone anniversary or simply looking to reignite the spark, Star Sightseeing's custom tours offer the perfect backdrop. As you journey with Star Sightseeing, you'll find yourself whisked away to vantage points offering panoramic views that stretch beyond the city's skyline into the wild, untamed beauty of nature. Delve deeper into Sightseeing in Victoria BC's charm by exploring its hidden beaches.

They're experts in dodging the cliché, steering you towards experiences that are as authentic as they're unforgettable.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC - Victoria sightseeing itineraries

  1. Victoria scenic drives
  2. Inner Harbour sightseeing tours
  3. Victoria zipline tours
  4. Victoria wildlife tours
  5. Victoria nature tours
  6. Victoria cultural tours
  7. Things to do in Victoria
  8. Victoria art tours
  9. Craigdarroch Castle tours
  10. Victoria tour packages
  11. Victoria sightseeing recommendations
  12. Victoria sightseeing tickets
  13. Victoria helicopter tours
  14. Victoria local tour guides
  15. Victoria walking tours
  16. Victoria snorkeling tours
  17. Victoria heritage tours
  18. Victoria ghost tours
They'll discuss your preferences further, offer suggestions, and answer any questions you may have. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or seeking culinary adventures, make sure you're clear about what you're looking for.

Star Sightseeing ensures that your exploration isn't just informative but deeply personal. From the historic elegance of the Royal BC Museum to the modernist lines of the Vancouver Island Technology Park, there's a blend of old and new that captures the essence of this vibrant city. You're taken to hidden gems where live music fills the air.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC’s Best Boat and Harbor Tours
Cultural Sightseeing Experiences in Sightseeing in Victoria BC

Cultural Sightseeing Experiences in Sightseeing in Victoria BC

Whether you're planning your perfect day out, curious about what to expect on your tour, or eager to learn more about capturing memories amidst Sightseeing in Victoria BC's stunning backdrops, Star Sightseeing offers a comprehensive package. Your guide will lead you to Melbourne's heart, the bustling Federation Square, where the city's pulse is palpable. It's not just about seeing the sights from above; it's about feeling the rush of adventure, all while ensconced in the lap of luxury.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC - Victoria Chinatown tours

  • Best sightseeing in Victoria
  • Victoria urban exploration tours
  • Victoria kayaking tours
  • Victoria island tours
  • Victoria road trips
  • Best tour operators in Victoria
  • Victoria 4x4 adventure tours
  • Best viewpoints in Victoria
  • Victoria senior-friendly sightseeing
  • Victoria suburbs sightseeing
  • Victoria hiking tours
  • North Victoria sightseeing tours
  • Victoria underground tours
  • Victoria paranormal tours
  • Victoria photography tours
  • Victoria waterfront tours
  • Sightseeing Victoria
  • Victoria whale watching
  • Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
  • Victoria private tours
Each adventure sport is designed with your safety and excitement in mind, ensuring unforgettable experiences that blend Sightseeing in Victoria BC's natural beauty with the thrill of extreme sports. It's a gastronomic journey through the city's best-kept culinary secrets, from artisan bakeries to boutique wineries.

Discover the natural beauty and wildlife wonders of Phillip Island on our next guided day trip. Keep a portable power bank handy to ensure your devices never run out of juice during your explorations. While exploring Sightseeing in Victoria BC with expert guides enhances your understanding of the city, it's the interactions with fellow travelers on the tour that often add an unexpected layer of enjoyment to your journey. After exploring what to expect on your tour, let's look at the variety of tour packages Star Sightseeing offers to suit your interests and schedule. Victoria private tours

We'll also guide you along the rugged coastline, taking in the breathtaking ocean views from Cape Schanck's historic lighthouse. So, choosing a private tour isn't just about exclusivity; it's about making your journey as memorable and personal as possible. Victoria cultural experience tours You'll visit iconic institutions renowned for their collections of indigenous and contemporary art, ensuring you don't just see art, but you feel its impact. They're committed to making your experience stress-free, from booking to embarking on your journey.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC's charm is also in its details – the intricate facades of Chinatown, the oldest of its kind in Canada, and the innovative designs of the Dockside Green community reflect the city's commitment to sustainability. They ensure every detail of your tour is curated to your interests, making every moment feel special. If you decide mid-tour that you'd like to spend more time at a particular spot or skip another, they're happy to accommodate. You'll meet the passionate food artisans, from bakers to chocolatiers, who are eager to share their stories and their creations.

Family-friendly tours in Victoria

Sightseeing in Victoria BC sightseeing ferry and gardens

You'll stroll down Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in the country, surrounded by vibrant markets and hidden courtyards, each with its own tale to tell. Another standout feature is the inclusion of hidden gems not covered by standard tours. It's a magical end to a year bursting with events, ensuring your visit to Sightseeing in Victoria BC is filled with memorable moments no matter the season. They've already curated the best experiences and know how to navigate the city efficiently, so you can cover more ground without feeling rushed. As you embark on this journey, you'll be treated not just to a tour, but to an experience meticulously crafted to blend luxury with adventure, offering glimpses into cultural and historical gems that are as enriching as they are enchanting.

Sipping on a locally brewed beer or a glass of Sightseeing in Victoria BC's finest wine, you'll find yourself fully enveloped in the warmth and welcoming nature of this extraordinary city. You're encouraged to communicate your preferences or any changes as soon as possible, allowing them to provide the best experience tailored just for you. You'll wander through the majestic halls of the Parliament Buildings, where the echoes of past legislations still reverberate. Star Sightseeing understands that luxury is in the details.

They've thought of everything, so you can relax and absorb the beauty around you, making your visit truly unforgettable. These aren't your run-of-the-mill tours; they're personalized journeys designed to match your interests and curiosity. It's these experiences that will make your culinary adventure in Sightseeing in Victoria BC truly unforgettable. Your chauffeur knows just the right spot for you to start your exploration, ensuring you don't miss the awe-inspiring totem poles that stand as sentinels of culture and heritage.

Participating in a cooking class with a renowned local chef, you'll dive into the flavors that define Sightseeing in Victoria BC, understanding the source of each ingredient and its cultural significance. This isn't just sightseeing; it's experiencing Sightseeing in Victoria BC with all your senses. Custom sightseeing tours Victoria Moreover, Star Sightseeing's drivers are professionals who've undergone extensive training in both driving and first aid. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, you'll find moving around the city a breeze.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC sightseeing ferry and gardens
Waterfront Attractions in Sightseeing in Victoria BC BC
Waterfront Attractions in Sightseeing in Victoria BC BC

Here, in the early morning mist, you might catch a glimpse of a platypus in the wild, a rare treat for any nature lover. Venturing beyond the well-trodden path, you'll uncover Sightseeing in Victoria BC's hidden gems, each offering its own unique charm and story. Victoria rainforest tours Let's explore why opting for this luxury sightseeing tour could be the key to unlocking a treasure trove of experiences in one of the most beautiful corners of the world. Exploring Sightseeing in Victoria BC becomes an unforgettable adventure with Star Sightseeing, your go-to guide for personalized tours. Whether you're marveling at the playful antics of penguins at Phillip Island or listening to the haunting call of the lyrebird, Sightseeing in Victoria BC's unique wildlife encounters promise to be a highlight of your journey.

Star Sightseeing tailors the mode of transport, pace, and even dining options to suit your style. Away from the bustling tourist trails, you'll find enchanting locales that locals cherish. Victoria whale watching After reading the heartfelt testimonials of those who've embarked on Star Sightseeing's tours, you're likely inspired to book your own dream tour of Sightseeing in Victoria BC.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC - Family-friendly tours in Victoria

  1. Victoria fall sightseeing
  2. Victoria multi-day tours
  3. Budget-friendly Victoria sightseeing
  4. Victoria architecture tours
  5. Victoria day trips
  6. Victoria sightseeing bus
  7. Victoria seaplane tours
  8. Best places to visit in Victoria
  9. Victoria luxury tours
  10. Victoria eco tours
  11. Victoria Christmas market tours
  12. Victoria night tours
  13. Best sightseeing in Victoria
  14. Victoria urban exploration tours
  15. Victoria kayaking tours
  16. Victoria island tours
  17. Victoria road trips
You'll sink into the plush seats of our meticulously maintained cars, each designed to offer the pinnacle of comfort and elegance.

Beyond the cultural festivities, you'll discover Sightseeing in Victoria BC's hidden gems on our exclusive city tours. You're not bound by rigid tour times. Select your preferred date and tour package, then proceed to checkout.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC - Victoria winter sightseeing

  • Things to do in Victoria
  • Victoria art tours
  • Craigdarroch Castle tours
  • Victoria tour packages
  • Victoria sightseeing recommendations
  • Victoria sightseeing tickets
  • Victoria helicopter tours
  • Victoria local tour guides
  • Victoria walking tours
  • Victoria snorkeling tours
  • Victoria heritage tours
  • Victoria ghost tours
  • Victoria brewery tours
  • Victoria travel tips
  • Victoria wine tours
Wrapping up your visit as the sun dips below the horizon offers a stunning spectacle, with the city lights beginning to twinkle.

This tour isn't just about seeing; it's about experiencing. Whether you're a history buff eager to explore ancient sites, a nature lover longing to wander through lush landscapes, or an art enthusiast keen to discover local galleries, we've got you covered. Moreover, Star Sightseeing's dedication to customer satisfaction means you're in good hands. Don't miss the lesser-known markets either.

Sightseeing in Victoria BCn Architecture Tours in the City

But it's not just about gold; you'll learn about the Eureka Rebellion, a pivotal event in Australian democracy that unfolded right in Ballarat. Victoria winter sightseeing That's why their vehicles are meticulously cleaned and sanitized before each tour. Here, you'll find yourself on specially constructed viewing platforms that ensure you get the best view without disturbing the penguins' natural habitat. They're flexible, too. While the personalized experience of a private tour enhances your visit, meeting local guides truly brings Sightseeing in Victoria BC's stories and secrets to life.
You'll wander through neighborhoods where art and history live side by side, offering you a glimpse into the past while keeping you firmly rooted in the present. Don't wait too long; spots fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. You'll explore hidden gems and iconic landmarks, understanding how history shaped the city's culture, architecture, and spirit. Explore Sightseeing in Victoria BC here You'll find packages that cater to every interest and desire, ensuring your visit is nothing short of unforgettable.

Sightseeing in Victoria BC - Family-friendly tours in Victoria

  1. Off-the-beaten-path Victoria tours
  2. Family-friendly tours in Victoria
  3. Victoria festival experience tours
  4. Victoria history tours
  5. Victoria sightseeing itineraries
  6. Custom sightseeing tours Victoria
  7. Unique Victoria tours
  8. Victoria Chinatown tours
  9. Victoria VIP tours
  10. Victoria whale watching
  11. Indigenous cultural tours Victoria
  12. Victoria private tours
  13. Victoria cultural experience tours
  14. Victoria boat tours
  15. Victoria rainforest tours
  16. Victoria winter sightseeing
  17. Victoria food tours
  18. Victoria sunset tours
  19. Victoria guided tours
  20. Victoria sightseeing deals

You'll uncover stories and secrets about Sightseeing in Victoria BC that you'd likely miss in a larger group, making your experience genuinely unique. Imagine the city's landmarks basking in the glow of moonlight, offering a perspective you won't get during the day. Read more about Sightseeing in Victoria BC here The package also includes guided walks through the towering forests, where you'll learn about the native flora and fauna from expert guides. They ended their story with a simple, yet powerful statement: 'Star Sightseeing didn't just show us Sightseeing in Victoria BC; they showed us how to fall in love with it all over again.'These stories, each unique yet unified in their praise, paint a picture of Star Sightseeing not just as a tour company, but as creators of unforgettable memories.
Imagine sipping on fine local wines aboard a private yacht as it sails through the sparkling waters near the coast, offering not just a taste of the region's renowned viticulture but also an adventure at sea. Did you know that over 3.5 million tourists flock to Sightseeing in Victoria BC each year, drawn by its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture? You're not just visiting; you're engaging with an environment that few have the privilege to know so intimately. Let Star Sightseeing tailor your journey through these architectural marvels, offering you a unique glimpse into Sightseeing in Victoria BC's past and future.

Sightseeing in Victoria BCn Architecture Tours in the City

 

Methods of travel in Hong Kong, the most visited city according to Euromonitor. Top to bottom: the Cross-Harbour Tunnel and the MTR.
Train travel – Passengers on a train on a bridge of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, between Mettupalayam and Ootacamund, in Tamil Nadu, India

Travel is the movement of people between distant geographical locations. Travel can be done by foot, bicycle, automobile, train, boat, bus, airplane, ship or other means, with or without luggage, and can be one way or round trip.[1] Travel can also include relatively short stays between successive movements, as in the case of tourism.

Etymology

[edit]

The origin of the word "travel" is most likely lost to history. The term "travel" may originate from the Old French word travail, which means 'work'.[2] According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the first known use of the word travel was in the 14th century. It also states that the word comes from Middle English travailen, travelen (which means to torment, labor, strive, journey) and earlier from Old French travailler (which means to work strenuously, toil).

In English, people still occasionally use the words travail, which means struggle. According to Simon Winchester in his book The Best Travelers' Tales (2004), the words travel and travail both share an even more ancient root: a Roman instrument of torture called the tripalium (in Latin it means "three stakes", as in to impale).[citation needed] This link may reflect the extreme difficulty of travel in ancient times. Travel in modern times may or may not be much easier, depending upon the destination. Travel to Mount Everest, the Amazon rainforest, extreme tourism, and adventure travel are more difficult forms of travel. Travel can also be more difficult depending on the method of travel, such as by bus, cruise ship, or even by bullock cart.[3]

Purpose and motivation

[edit]
Traveler's motorcycle with large rear box

Reasons for traveling include recreation,[4] holidays, rejuvenation,[5] tourism[4] or vacationing,[4] research travel,[4] the gathering of information, visiting people, volunteer travel for charity, migration to begin life somewhere else, religious pilgrimages[4] and mission trips, business travel,[4] trade,[4] commuting, obtaining health care,[4] waging or fleeing war, for the enjoyment of traveling, or other reasons. Travelers may use human-powered transport such as walking or bicycling; or vehicles, such as public transport, automobiles, trains, ferries, boats, cruise ships and airplanes.

Motives for travel include:

History

[edit]

Travel dates back to antiquity where wealthy Greeks and Romans would travel for leisure to their summer homes and villas in cities such as Pompeii and Baiae.[9] While early travel tended to be slower, more dangerous, and more dominated by trade and migration, cultural and technological advances over many years have tended to mean that travel has become easier and more accessible.[10] Humankind has come a long way in transportation since Christopher Columbus sailed to the New World from Spain in 1492, an expedition which took over 10 weeks to arrive at the final destination; to the 21st century when aircraft allows travel from Spain to the United States overnight.

Travel in the Middle Ages offered hardships and challenges, though it was important to the economy and to society. The wholesale sector depended (for example) on merchants dealing with/through caravans or sea-voyagers, end-user retailing often demanded the services of many itinerant peddlers wandering from village to hamlet, gyrovagues (wandering monks) and wandering friars brought theology and pastoral support to neglected areas, traveling minstrels toured, and armies ranged far and wide in various crusades and in sundry other wars.[9] Pilgrimages were common in both the European and Islamic world and involved streams of travelers both locally and internationally.[11]

In the late 16th century, it became fashionable for young European aristocrats and wealthy upper-class men to travel to significant European cities as part of their education in the arts and literature. This was known as the Grand Tour, and included cities such as London, Paris, Venice, Florence, and Rome. However, the French Revolution brought with it the end of the Grand Tour.[9]

Travel by water often provided more comfort and speed than land-travel, at least until the advent of a network of railways in the 19th century. Travel for the purpose of tourism is reported to have started around this time when people began to travel for fun as travel was no longer a hard and challenging task. This was capitalized on by people like Thomas Cook selling tourism packages where trains and hotels were booked together.[12] Airships and airplanes took over much of the role of long-distance surface travel in the 20th century, notably after the Second World War where there was a surplus of both aircraft and pilots.[9] Air travel has become so ubiquitous in the 21st century that one woman, Alexis Alford, visited all 196 countries before the age of 21.[13]

Geographic types

[edit]

Travel may be local, regional, national (domestic) or international. In some countries, non-local internal travel may require an internal passport, while international travel typically requires a passport and visa. Tours are a common type of travel. Examples of travel tours are expedition cruises,[14] small group tours,[15] and river cruises.[16]

Safety

[edit]
Travelers in a British Airways 747 airplane. Air travel is a common means of transport.
MS Skania ferry in the port of Szczecin

Authorities emphasize the importance of taking precautions to ensure travel safety.[17] When traveling abroad, the odds favor a safe and incident-free trip, however, travelers can be subject to difficulties, crime and violence.[18] Some safety considerations include being aware of one's surroundings,[17] avoiding being the target of a crime,[17] leaving copies of one's passport and itinerary information with trusted people,[17] obtaining medical insurance valid in the country being visited[17] and registering with one's national embassy when arriving in a foreign country.[17] Many countries do not recognize drivers' licenses from other countries; however most countries accept international driving permits.[19] Automobile insurance policies issued in one's own country are often invalid in foreign countries, and it is often a requirement to obtain temporary auto insurance valid in the country being visited.[19] It is also advisable to become oriented with the driving rules and regulations of destination countries.[19] Wearing a seat belt is highly advisable for safety reasons; many countries have penalties for violating seatbelt laws.[19]

There are three main statistics which may be used to compare the safety of various forms of travel (based on a Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions survey in October 2000):[20]

Mode Deaths per billion
Journeys Hours Kilometers
Bus 4.3 11.1 0.4
Rail 20 30 0.6
Air 117 30.8 0.05
Ship 90 50 2.6
Van 20 60 1.2
Car 40 130 3.1
Walking 40 220 54
Bicycle 170 550 45
Motorcycle 1640 4840 109

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Travel". Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Merriam-Webster. 12 Apr 2021. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
  2. ^ Entymoligical dictionary (definition). Retrieved on 10 December 2011
  3. ^ Buzard, J. (1993). The Beaten Track. European Tourism literature, and the Ways to 'Culture' 1800 - 1918. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "The Road to Travel: Purpose of Travel." University of Florida, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. (Compilation for History 3931/REL 3938 course.) Accessed July 2011.
  5. ^ "Motivations of Travel" (PDF). U.S. Travel Association.
  6. ^ Simonson, Lawrence R.; Koth, Barbara A.; Kreag, Glenn M. (1988). "So Your Community Wants Travel/Tourism? Guidelines for Attracting and Servicing Visitors". conservancy.edu. hdl:11299/178439. Retrieved 10 April 2018.
  7. ^ a b "Motivations for Travel Fact Sheet" (PDF). U.S. Travel Association. Retrieved 23 September 2023.
  8. ^ "Cultural Experiences". Worldpackers.
  9. ^ a b c d "A History Of Why People Travel". Matador Network.
  10. ^ "A Brief Visual History of Travel". Accessed May 2017.
  11. ^ Peters, F. E. (1994). The Hajj: The Muslim Pilgrimage to Mecca and the Holy Places. Princeton University Press. p. 164. ISBN 9780691026190.
  12. ^ "A brief history of travel: From elite hobby to mass tourism". Deutsche Welle. Retrieved 13 February 2018.
  13. ^ Beni, Shauna (July 29, 2019). "This Gen Zer Just Became the Youngest Person to Travel to Every Country: Alexis Alford—or Lexie Limitless, as she's known on Instagram—has set the record at just 21 years old". Conde Nast Traveler. Retrieved March 6, 2020. ... By age 12, Alexis Alford ... Alford, now 21, has accomplished her goal...
  14. ^ "Unrivaled Expedition Cruises". National Geographic Expeditions. Retrieved 2021-04-30.
  15. ^ "Book a small group tour with National Geographic Journeys and see more of the world for less". National Geographic Expeditions. Retrieved 2021-04-30.
  16. ^ "River Cruises from National Geographic - Book one of our new authentic River Cruises across Europe or Asia". National Geographic Expeditions. Retrieved 2021-04-30.
  17. ^ a b c d e f "Tips for Traveling Abroad." Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 2011.
  18. ^ "A Safe Trip Abroad." Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 2011.
  19. ^ a b c d "Road Safety Overseas." Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State. Accessed July 2011.
  20. ^ The risks of travel Archived 2001-09-07 at the Wayback Machine
[edit]

 

 

Tours is located in Centre-Val de Loire
Tours
Tours
 
Tours
Medieval buildings on Place Plumereau
Pont Wilson over the Loire
Prébendes d'Oé garden
Flag of Tours
Coat of arms of Tours
Location of Tours
Map
Tours is located in France
Tours
Tours
 

Coordinates: 47°23′37″N 0°41′21″E / 47.393611°N 0.689167°E / 47.393611; 0.689167CountryFranceRegionCentre-Val de LoireDepartmentIndre-et-LoireArrondissementToursCantonTours-1
Tours-2
Tours-3
Tours-4
IntercommunalityTours Métropole Val de LoireGovernment

 

 • Mayor (2020–2026) Emmanuel Denis[1] (The Greens)

Area
1

34.7 km2 (13.4 sq mi) • Urban

 (2018)

684.9 km2 (264.4 sq mi) • Metro

 (2018)

3,631.6 km2 (1,402.2 sq mi)Population

 (2022)[2]

138,668 • Rank26th in France • Density4,000/km2 (10,000/sq mi) • Urban

 (2018)

359,992 • Urban density530/km2 (1,400/sq mi) • Metro

 (2018)

516,973 • Metro density140/km2 (370/sq mi)Demonym(s)Tourangeau (masculine)
Tourangelle (feminine)Time zoneUTC+01:00 (CET) • Summer (DST)UTC+02:00 (CEST)INSEE/Postal code

37261 /37000, 37100, 37200

Elevation44–119 m (144–390 ft)1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries.

Tours (/tʊər/ TOOR; French: [tuʁ] ) is the largest city in the region of Centre-Val de Loire, France. It is the prefecture of the department of Indre-et-Loire. The commune of Tours had 136,463 inhabitants as of 2018 while the population of the whole metropolitan area was 516,973.[3]

Tours sits on the lower reaches of the Loire, between Orléans and the Atlantic coast. Formerly named Caesarodunum by its founder, Roman Emperor Augustus, it possesses one of the largest amphitheaters of the Roman Empire, the Tours Amphitheatre. Known for the Battle of Tours in 732 AD, it is a National Sanctuary with connections to the Merovingians and the Carolingians, with the Capetians making the kingdom's currency the Livre tournois. Saint Martin and Gregory of Tours were from Tours. Tours was once part of Touraine, a former province of France. Tours was the first city of the silk industry. It was taken by Louis XI, as the royal capital under the Valois Kings with its Loire castles and city of art with the School of Tours. The prefecture was partially destroyed during the French Wars of Religion in the late 16th century and again during the Second World War in June 1940.

The White and Blue city keeps a historical center registered in the UNESCO, and is home to the Vieux-Tours, a patrimonial site. The garden city has a green heritage and an urban landscape strongly influenced by its natural space. The historic city that is nicknamed "Le Petit Paris" and its region by its history and culture has always been a land of birth or host to many personalities, international sporting events, and is a university city with more than 30,000 students in 2019. Tours is a popular culinary city with specialties such as: rillettes, rillons, Touraine vineyards, AOC Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine cheeses and nougats. The city is also the end-point of the annual Paris–Tours cycle race.

Etymology

[edit]

A popular folk etymology of the word "Tours" is that it comes from Turonus, the nephew of Brutus. Turonus died in a war between Corineus and the king of Aquitaine, Goffarius Pictus, provoked by Corineus hunting in the king's forests without permission. It is said that Turonus was buried in Tours and the city is founded around his grave.[4]

History

[edit]

In Gallic times, Tours was an important crossing point over the Loire. It became part of the Roman Empire during the 1st century AD, and the city was named Caesarodunum ("hill of Caesar"). The name evolved in the 4th century when the original Gallic name, Turones, became Civitas Turonum and then Tours. It was at this time that the Tours Amphitheatre was built.

Tours became a metropolis in the Roman province of Lugdunum towards 380–388 AD, dominating Maine, Brittany, and the Loire Valley. One important figure in the city was Saint Martin of Tours, a bishop who shared his coat with a naked beggar in Amiens. The importance of Martin in the medieval Christian West made Tours, and its position on the route of pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, a major centre during the Middle Ages.

Middle Ages

[edit]

In the 6th century, Gregory of Tours, author of the Ten Books of History, restored a cathedral destroyed by a fire in 561. Saint Martin's monastery benefited from its inception, at the very start of the 6th century from patronage and support from the Frankish king, Clovis I, which increased considerably the influence of the saint, the abbey and the city in Gaul. In the 9th century, Tours was at the heart of the Carolingian Renaissance, in particular because of Alcuin, of York in Northumbria, a renowned book collector and an abbot of Marmoutier Abbey.

In 732, Abdul Rahman Al Ghafiqi and an army of Muslim horsemen from Al-Andalus advanced 500 kilometres (300 miles) deep into France, and were stopped at Moussais-la-Bataille[5] (between Châtellerault and Poitiers) by Charles Martel and his infantry. This ignited the Battle of Tours. The Muslim army was defeated, preventing an Islamic conquest of France.

In 845, Tours repelled the first attack of the Viking chief Haesten. In 850, the Vikings settled at the mouths of the Seine and the Loire. Still led by Haesten, they went up the Loire again in 852 and sacked Angers, Tours and Marmoutier Abbey.

During the Middle Ages, Tours consisted of two juxtaposed and competing centres. The "City" in the east, successor of the late Roman 'castrum', was composed of the cathedral and palace of the archbishops as well as the castle of Tours. The castle of Tours acted as a seat of the authority of the Counts of Tours (later Counts of Anjou) and the King of France. In the west, the "new city" structured around the Abbey of Saint Martin was freed from the control of the city during the 10th century (an enclosure was built towards 918) and became "Châteauneuf". This space, organized between Saint Martin and the Loire, became the economic centre of Tours. Between these two centres were Varennes, vineyards and fields, little occupied except for the Abbaye Saint-Julien established on the banks of the Loire. The two centres were linked during the 14th century.

Place Plumereau, Medieval buildings

Tours became the capital of the county of Tours or Touraine, a territory bitterly disputed between the counts of Blois and Anjou – the latter were victorious in the 11th century. It was the capital of France at the time of Louis XI, who had settled in the castle of Montils (today the castle of Plessis-les-Tours, at the junction of the Loire and the Indre rivers). Tours and Touraine remained a permanent residence of the kings and court until the 16th century. The Renaissance gave Tours and Touraine many private mansions and castles, joined to some extent under the generic name of the Châteaux of the Loire. It is also at the time of Louis XI that the silk industry was introduced – despite difficulties, the industry still survives to this day.

16th–18th centuries

[edit]

Charles IX passed through the city at the time of his royal tour of France between 1564 and 1566, accompanied by the Court and various noblemen: his brother the Duke of Anjou, Henri de Navarre, the cardinals of Bourbon and Lorraine. At this time, the Catholics returned to power in Angers: the attendant assumed the right to nominate the aldermen. The Massacre of Saint-Barthelemy was not repeated at Tours. The Protestants were imprisoned by the aldermen – a measure which prevented their extermination. The permanent return of the Court to Paris and then Versailles marked the beginning of a slow but permanent decline. Guillaume the Metayer (1763–1798), known as Rochambeau, the well-known counter-revolutionary chief of Mayenne, was shot in Tours.

19th to 20th centuries

[edit]

The arrival of the railway in the 19th century saved the city by making it an important nodal point. The main railway station is known as Tours-Saint-Pierre-des-Corps. At that time, Tours was expanding towards the south into a district known as the Prébendes. The importance of the city as a centre of communications contributed to its revival and, as the 20th century progressed, Tours became a dynamic conurbation, economically oriented towards the service sector.

First World War

[edit]
Tours Cathedral: 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic west front with Renaissance pinnacles, completed 1547.

The city was greatly affected by the First World War. A force of 25,000 American soldiers arrived in 1917, setting up textile factories for the manufacture of uniforms, repair shops for military equipment, munitions dumps, an army post office and an American military hospital at Augustins. Because of this, Tours became a garrison town with a resident general staff. The American presence is remembered today by the Woodrow Wilson Bridge over the Loire, which was officially opened in July 1918 and bears the name of the President of the United States from 1913 to 1921. Three American air force squadrons, including the 492nd, were based at the Parçay-Meslay airfield, their personnel playing an active part in the life of the city. Americans paraded at funerals and award ceremonies for the Croix de Guerre. They also took part in festivals and their YMCA organised shows for the troops. Some men married women from Tours.

Inter-war years

[edit]

In 1920, the city hosted the Congress of Tours, which saw the creation of the French Communist Party. One future consequence of that congress was the presence of Ho Chi Minh, the Vietnamese nationalist, who became one of the first members of the party.

Second World War

[edit]

Tours was also marked by the Second World War, as the city suffered massive destruction in 1940. For four years it was a city of military camps and fortifications. From 10 to 13 June 1940, Tours was the temporary seat of the French government before its move to Bordeaux.

German incendiary bombs caused a huge fire, which blazed out of control from 20 to 22 June and destroyed part of the city centre. Some architectural masterpieces of the 16th and 17th centuries were lost, as was the monumental entry to the city. The Wilson Bridge, which carried a water main that supplied the city, was dynamited to slow the progress of the German advance. With the water main severed, nobody could extinguish the inferno. That made inhabitants have no option but to flee to safety. More heavy air raids by Allied forces devastated the area around the railway station in 1944, causing several hundred deaths.

Post-war developments

[edit]

A plan for the rebuilding of the central area drawn up by the local architect Camille Lefèvre had been adopted even before the end of the war. The plan was for 20 small quadrangular blocks of housing to be arranged around the main road (la rue Nationale), which was widened. This regular layout attempted to echo but simplify the 18th-century architecture. Pierre Patout succeeded Lefèvre as the architect in charge of rebuilding in 1945. At one time, there was talk of demolishing the southern side of the rue Nationale to make it in keeping with the new development.

The recent history of Tours is marked by the personality of Jean Royer, who was mayor for 36 years and helped save the old town from demolition by establishing one of the first Conservation Areas. This example of conservation policy would later inspire the Malraux Law for the safeguarding of historic city centres. In the 1970s, Jean Royer also extended the city to the south by diverting the course of the Cher River to create the districts of Rives du Cher and des Fontaines. At the time, it was one of the largest urban developments in Europe. In 1970, the François Rabelais University was founded and centred on the bank of the Loire in the downtown area, not, as was the current practice, in a campus in the suburbs. The latter solution was also chosen by the twin university of Orleans. Royer's long term as mayor was, however, not without controversy, as is exemplified by the construction of the practical but aesthetically unattractive motorway, which runs along the bed of a former canal just 1,500 metres (4,900 feet) from the cathedral. Another bone of contention was the original Vinci Congress Centre by Jean Nouvel. The project incurred debts although it at least made Tours one of France's principal conference centres.

Jean Germain, a member of the Socialist Party, became mayor in 1995 and made debt reduction his priority. Ten years later, his economic management was regarded as much wiser than that of his predecessor because of the financial stability of the city returning. However, his achievements were criticised by the municipal opposition for a lack of ambition. There were no large building projects instituted under his two terms. That position is disputed by those in power, who affirm their policy of concentrating on the quality of life, as evidenced by urban restoration, the development of public transport and cultural activities.

Climate

[edit]

Tours has an oceanic climate that is very mild for such a northern latitude. Summers are influenced by its inland position, resulting in frequent days of 25 °C (77 °F) or warmer, whereas winters are kept mild by Atlantic air masses. The entire valley between Orlans and Angers is famous for the luminosity of its air and for its fabulous châteaux, most of them Renaissance (over 600 between Orlans and Angers).

Climate data for Tours (1991–2020 averages)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 16.9
(62.4)
22.1
(71.8)
25.3
(77.5)
29.2
(84.6)
31.8
(89.2)
39.1
(102.4)
40.8
(105.4)
39.8
(103.6)
35.5
(95.9)
31.1
(88.0)
22.3
(72.1)
18.5
(65.3)
40.8
(105.4)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 7.7
(45.9)
9.0
(48.2)
12.9
(55.2)
16.0
(60.8)
19.6
(67.3)
23.4
(74.1)
25.9
(78.6)
26.0
(78.8)
22.1
(71.8)
17.0
(62.6)
11.4
(52.5)
8.1
(46.6)
16.6
(61.9)
Daily mean °C (°F) 5.1
(41.2)
5.6
(42.1)
8.6
(47.5)
11.0
(51.8)
14.5
(58.1)
18.0
(64.4)
20.2
(68.4)
20.2
(68.4)
16.8
(62.2)
13.0
(55.4)
8.3
(46.9)
5.5
(41.9)
12.2
(54.0)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 2.5
(36.5)
2.3
(36.1)
4.3
(39.7)
6.0
(42.8)
9.4
(48.9)
12.6
(54.7)
14.4
(57.9)
14.3
(57.7)
11.4
(52.5)
9.0
(48.2)
5.3
(41.5)
2.9
(37.2)
7.9
(46.2)
Record low °C (°F) −17.4
(0.7)
−14.2
(6.4)
−10.3
(13.5)
−3.4
(25.9)
−0.6
(30.9)
2.6
(36.7)
4.3
(39.7)
4.8
(40.6)
0.9
(33.6)
−2.3
(27.9)
−7.1
(19.2)
−18.5
(−1.3)
−18.5
(−1.3)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 63.0
(2.48)
52.4
(2.06)
48.7
(1.92)
53.0
(2.09)
57.7
(2.27)
53.2
(2.09)
46.6
(1.83)
44.0
(1.73)
51.8
(2.04)
66.0
(2.60)
69.3
(2.73)
72.1
(2.84)
677.8
(26.69)
Average precipitation days 11.0 9.8 9.3 8.9 9.0 7.6 6.7 6.6 7.5 9.8 11.4 11.5 109.0
Average snowy days 2.4 2.9 1.8 0.7 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 1.7 10.6
Average relative humidity (%) 87 84 79 74 77 75 72 73 77 84 87 89 79.8
Mean monthly sunshine hours 68.4 95.2 148.8 187.3 214.2 228.5 247.1 237.7 191.3 122.9 78.9 64.6 1,884.8
Source 1: Météo France[6][7]
Source 2: Infoclimat.fr (humidity and snowy days, 1961–1990)[8]

Sights

[edit]
Hôtel de Ville, Place Jean Jaurès
St Gatien Cathedral, from Rue Lavoisier, just north of the Rue Colbert intersection.
Pont Wilson

Cathedral

[edit]

The Cathedral of Tours, dedicated to Saint Gatien, its canonized first bishop, was begun about 1170 to replace the cathedral that was burnt out in 1166 during the dispute between Louis VII of France and Henry II of England. The lowermost stages of the western towers belong to the 12th century, but the rest of the west end is in the profusely detailed 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic, which were completed just as the Renaissance was affecting the patrons who planned the châteaux of Touraine. The towers were being constructed at the same time as, for example, the Château de Chenonceau.

When the 15th-century illuminator Jean Fouquet was set the task of illuminating Josephus's Jewish Antiquities, his depiction of Solomon's Temple was modelled on the nearly complete cathedral of Tours. The atmosphere of the Gothic cathedral close permeates Honoré de Balzac's dark short novel of jealousy and provincial intrigues, Le Curé de Tours (The Curate of Tours) and his medieval story Maître Cornélius opens in the cathedral itself.

Other points of interest

[edit]

Language

[edit]

Before the French Revolution, the inhabitants of Tours (Les Tourangeaux) were known for speaking the "purest" form of French in the entire country.[9] The pronunciation of Touraine was traditionally regarded as the most standard pronunciation of the French language, until the 19th century when the standard pronunciation of French shifted to that of the Parisian bourgeoisie.[10] That is explained by the fact that the court of France lived in Touraine between 1430 and 1530. French, the language of the court, had become the official language of the entire kingdom.

A Council of Tours in 813 decided that priests should preach sermons in different languages because the common people could no longer understand classical Latin. This was the first official recognition of an early French language distinct from Latin, and can be considered as the birth of French.

The Ordinance of Montils-lès-Tours, promulgated by Charles VII in 1454, made it mandatory to write laws and oral customs in the native language of the area.

An ordinance of Charles VIII (born in Amboise, near Tours) in 1490 and one of Louis XII (born in Blois, near Tours) in 1510 broaden the scope of the ordinance of Charles VII.

Finally, the Ordinance of Villers-Cotterêts, signed into law by Francis I in 1539, called for the use of French in all legal acts, notarized contracts and official legislation to avoid any linguistic confusion.

Gregory of Tours wrote in the 6th century that some people in the area could still speak Gaulish.

City

[edit]
Pont Wilson crosses the river Loire at the old civic core

The city has a population of 140,000 and is called "Le Jardin de la France" ("The Garden of France"). There are several parks located within the city. Tours is located between two rivers, the Loire to the north and the Cher to the south. The buildings of Tours are white with blue slate (called Ardoise) roofs; this style is common in the north of France, while most buildings in the south of France have terracotta roofs.

Tours is famous for its original medieval district, called le Vieux Tours. Unique to the Old City are its preserved half-timbered buildings and la Place Plumereau, a square with busy pubs and restaurants, whose open-air tables fill the centre of the square. The Boulevard Beranger crosses the Rue Nationale at the Place Jean-Jaures and is the location of weekly markets and fairs.

Tours is famous for its many bridges crossing the river Loire. One of them, Wilson Bridge, collapsed in 1978 but was rebuilt.

In the garden of the ancient Palais des Archevêques (now Musée des Beaux-Arts) is a huge cedar tree said to have been planted by Napoleon.[11] The garden also has a stuffed elephant named Fritz. He escaped from the Barnum and Bailey circus during their stay in Tours in 1902. He went mad and had to be shot down, but the city paid to honor him, and he was taxidermied as a result.

Tours is home to University of Tours (formerly known as University François Rabelais of Tours), the site of one of the most important choral competitions, called Florilège Vocal de Tours International Choir Competition, and is a member city of the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing.

Population

[edit]

The population data in the table and graph below refer to the commune of Tours proper, in its geography at the given years. The commune of Tours absorbed the former commune of Saint-Étienne in 1845 and Sainte-Radegonde-en-Touraine and Saint-Symphorien in 1964.[12]

Historical population
Year Pop. ±% p.a.
1793 21,000 —    
1800 20,240 −0.53%
1806 21,703 +1.17%
1821 21,928 +0.07%
1831 23,235 +0.58%
1836 26,669 +2.80%
1841 30,072 +2.43%
1846 30,766 +0.46%
1851 33,530 +1.74%
1856 38,055 +2.56%
1861 41,061 +1.53%
1866 42,450 +0.67%
1872 43,368 +0.36%
1876 48,325 +2.74%
1881 52,209 +1.56%
1886 59,585 +2.68%
1891 60,335 +0.25%
1896 63,267 +0.95%
Year Pop. ±% p.a.
1901 64,695 +0.45%
1906 67,601 +0.88%
1911 73,398 +1.66%
1921 75,096 +0.23%
1926 77,192 +0.55%
1931 78,585 +0.36%
1936 83,753 +1.28%
1946 80,044 −0.45%
1954 83,618 +0.55%
1962 92,944 +1.33%
1968 128,120 +5.50%
1975 140,686 +1.35%
1982 132,209 −0.88%
1990 129,509 −0.26%
1999 132,820 +0.28%
2007 136,578 +0.35%
2012 134,978 −0.24%
2017 135,787 +0.12%
 
Source: EHESS[12] and INSEE (1968–2017)[13]

Transportation

[edit]
Tram model, design by the French agency RCP Design Global

Today, with extensive rail (including TGV) and autoroute connections linking to the rest of the country, Tours is a jumping-off point for tourist visits to the Loire Valley and the royal châteaux.

Tours is on one of the main lines of the TGV. It is possible to travel to the west coast of Bordeaux in an hour and forty minutes. From there, the line follows the Mediterranean coast via Avignon, and then to Spain and Barcelona. There are also lines to Lyon, Strasbourg and Lille. It takes less than one hour by train to get from Tours to Paris by TGV and one and a half hours to get to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Tours has two main stations: Gare de Tours, the central station, and Gare de Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, used by trains that do not terminate in Tours.

Tours Loire Valley Airport connects the Loire Valley to European cities.

Historically, Tours was served by trams and trolleybuses, the trolleybus system lasting from 1949 to 1968. Tram service returned to the city in 2013, when a new tram system began operation. Twenty-one Alstom Citadis trams were ordered.[14]

There is also a bus service, the main central stop being Jean Jaurès, next to the Hôtel de Ville, and rue Nationale, the high street of Tours. The tram and bus networks are operated by Fil Bleu and they share a ticketing system. A second tram line is scheduled for 2025.[15]

Sport

[edit]

The city's football team, Tours FC, currently play in Championnat National 3, the fifth level of French football. They also have a second team, CCSP Tours. CCSP's home stadium is the Stade des Tourettes and they play in the Division d'Honneur Regionale de Centre, the seventh tier of the French football league system.[citation needed]

Tours has served as the finish location for Paris–Tours, a one-day road cycling classic race held almost every October since 1896.[16]

Tours also has a volleyball club named the Tours VB.

Catholics from Tours

[edit]
Venerable Leo Dupont, Holy Man of Tours

Tours is a special place for Catholics who follow the devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus and the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. In 1843, Sister Marie of St Peter of Tours reported a vision which started the devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus, in reparation for the many insults Christ suffered in His Passion. The Golden Arrow Prayer was first made public by her.

The Venerable Leo Dupont also known as The Holy Man of Tours lived in Tours at about the same time. In 1849 he started the nightly adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, which spread throughout France. Upon hearing of Sister Marie of St Peter's reported visions, he started to burn a vigil lamp continuously before a picture of the Holy Face of Jesus. The devotion was eventually approved by Pope Pius XII in 1958 and he formally declared the Feast of the Holy Face of Jesus as Shrove Tuesday (the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday) for all Roman Catholics.[17] The Oratory of the Holy Face on Rue St. Etienne in Tours receives many pilgrims every year.

Tours was the site of the episcopal activity of St. Martin of Tours and has further Christian connotations in that the pivotal Battle of Tours in 732 is often considered the first decisive victory over the invading Islamic forces, turning the tide against them. The battle also helped lay the foundations of the Carolingian Empire.[18]

Notable people

[edit]
Louise de la Vallière, 17th.C
General Régis de Trobriand, 1865

Public service

[edit]

Arts

[edit]
Jean Fouquet self portrait, ca.1450
Philippe Néricault Destouches, 1741
statue of Honoré de Balzac

Science and business

[edit]
Gabriel Lamé

Sport

[edit]
Pascal Hervé, 2000

Twin towns — sister cities

[edit]

Tours is twinned with:[28]

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Répertoire national des élus: les maires" (in French). data.gouv.fr, Plateforme ouverte des données publiques françaises. 13 September 2022.
  2. ^ "Populations de référence 2022" (in French). The National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies. 19 December 2024.
  3. ^ "Comparateur de territoire". INSEE. Retrieved 16 June 2022.
  4. ^ Historia Brittonum 7, 10–11
  5. ^ The Andalusian History, from the Islamic conquest till the fall of Granada 92–897 A.H. (711–1492 C.E.), by Professor AbdurRahman Ali El-Hajji, a professor of the Islamic history at Baghdad University, published in Dar Al-Qalam, in Damascus, and in Beirut. "Second Edition". p. 194
  6. ^ "Données climatiques de la station de Tours" (in French). Meteo France. Retrieved 31 December 2015.
  7. ^ "TOURS (37)" (PDF). Fiche Climatologique: Statistiques 1991–2020 et records (in French). Meteo France. Retrieved 6 August 2019.
  8. ^ "Normes et records 1961–1990: Tours – St Symphorien (37) – altitude 112m" (in French). Infoclimat. Retrieved 31 December 2015.
  9. ^ "Tours, France". Meet Minneapolis. 2012. Archived from the original on 22 July 2012. Retrieved 3 August 2012.
  10. ^ de Montvalon, Jean-Baptiste. "Philippe Boula de Mareüil : « Les accents participent à la richesse de notre langue". Le Monde (in French). Paris. Retrieved 19 July 2015.
  11. ^ "City summary: Tours". us.media.france.fr.
  12. ^ a b Des villages de Cassini aux communes d'aujourd'hui: Commune data sheet Tours, EHESS (in French).
  13. ^ Population en historique depuis 1968, INSEE
  14. ^ "Tours selects Citadis and APS". Railway Gazette International. London. 14 September 2010. Retrieved 15 September 2010.
  15. ^ "Tramway de Tours – Le Tram de Tours". letramdetours.net.
  16. ^ "City tourism: Tours". Paris–Tours. Amaury Sport Organisation. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
  17. ^ Dorothy Scallan. "The Holy Man of Tours." (1990) ISBN 0-89555-390-2
  18. ^ Davis, Paul K. (1999) "100 Decisive Battles From Ancient Times to the Present" ISBN 0-19-514366-3
  19. ^ "Berengarius" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 3 (11th ed.). 1911. pp. 768–769.
  20. ^ "La Vallière, Louise Françoise de" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 16 (11th ed.). 1911. pp. 290–291.
  21. ^ "Viollet, Paul Marie" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 28 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 107.
  22. ^ "Foucquet, Jean" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 10 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 737.
  23. ^ Williamson, George Charles (1911). "Clouet, François" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 6 (11th ed.). pp. 559–560.
  24. ^ "Destouches, Philippe" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 8 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 104.
  25. ^ "Dutens, Louis" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 8 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 736.
  26. ^ "Bouilly, Jean Nicolas" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 4 (11th ed.). 1911. p. 318.
  27. ^ Saintsbury, George (1911). "Balzac, Honoré de" . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 3 (11th ed.). pp. 298–301.
  28. ^ "Jumelages et partenariats". tours.fr (in French). Tours. Retrieved 16 November 2019.

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Star Sightseeing prioritizes your safety by implementing strict health measures, including regular sanitation of vehicles, mandatory masks, and health screenings for all travelers, ensuring a secure experience amidst current global health concerns.

You'll find that Star Sightseeing offers several accessibility options for travelers with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and personalized assistance. They're dedicated to ensuring everyone can enjoy their tours comfortably and safely.

Star Sightseeing prioritizes your safety and health by adhering to strict hygiene measures, implementing social distancing on tours, and ensuring vehicles and equipment are sanitized regularly, especially considering current global health concerns.