Look Up in Descartes...

The rather loud frontage of the hair salon on rue du Commerce in Descartes makes it easy to look straight ahead and miss what is above. Look up, though and the upper floors reveal a much more restrained façade, with elegant windows, ironwork balconies and carefully carved stone detailing. It is a good example of why the 'Windows and Balconies' series looks beyond the obvious at street level.

“Through every window,Touraine breathes — calm, patient, and quietly luminous.”

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Part of the “Windows of the Loire” Series

Each Wednesday, we share a glimpse of the Loire Valley through its windows — small frames of everyday beauty and quiet reflection.

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Descartes - towns and villages of Centre-Val de Loire.

Descartes has a claim to fame that is not quite as straightforward as it first appears. René Descartes was traditionally regarded as having been born here in 1596, when the town was still called La Haye-en-Touraine. There has nevertheless been some debate over the precise circumstances of his birth, including claims linking it with Châtellerault. What is certain is that he spent his early childhood here, and the town eventually took his name.

Part of the “Towns & Villages of the Loire” Series

Exploring the towns and villages of the Loire Valley — their streets, stories, and quiet beauty.

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