OLD TOWNS OF NORMANDY

[Music] [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Music] The coast of Normandy is famed for many quiet towns so popular for summer vacations by the sea. One is Fakeon, a fishing port that played an important part in early Norman history and during the French and English wars. The small town nestled in a valley between high cliffs and around a wellprotected harbor. Attracting many visitors annually is a 1,000-year-old Benedictine monastery and the modern buildings where the leare originated by the monks is distilled. Quiet atmosphere and invigorating climate make a pleasant retreat for a restful and healthful soldier and by the sea. Heat. Heat. [Music] Not far distant, situated at the base of state the cliffs, is a small village named E4. The few inhabitants of which derive their livelihood from summer visitors and yearround following of the sea. Once a year, the entire population joins in the picturesque and unique ceremony of blessing of the sea in thanksgiving to Providence for the waters which contribute so much to their happiness and life. [Music] [Applause] Heat. Heat. Throughout Normandy, one of the richest agricultural regions of France, are many neat farmyard enclosures surrounded by well-trimmed trees and well-kept fields. [Applause] [Music] Situated on the right bank of the river Sen is Ruan, principal city of Normandy and once capital of the Dupal Kingdom but now of the department of the lower Sen. Though 80 mi from the mouth of the river, Ruan is one of the most important ports of the country, for through it passes more freight than through any other port of France. An unusual transportation bridge spans the river between the ocean steamer caves. The tall towers and cross supports from which are suspended the cables of the moving car allow unrestricted movement of large ships at all times. Ruan, richest of all French cities in medieval architecture, has great appeal to all. For here occurred one of the most tragic episodes in history, the burning of Jon of Ar as a witch. [Music] Though some of the ancient and picturesque houses have been demolished for necessary development of the city, many stand and are still in use today. An old famous yet busy shopping fair leading to the cathedral is the street of the big clock socalled from the 14th century giant clock that spans it. The cathedral dates from the 13th century, but the cornerstone of the first church on this site was laid in the year 400 AD. The tower of St. Roman on the left is the oldest part of the cathedral. The tower on the right is known as the tower of butter and derives its name from having been erected with offerings of the devout for indulgences to eat butter during Lent. The many old buildings and houses which surround the cathedral prevent a proper perspective of the entire structure, and only from a distance can the 465- ft tower and the massive proportions be clearly seen and appreciated. are the graceful towers not so high are those of San Fran, one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in existence with tradition dating the erection of the first church on this site in 399 AD. In the square beside the church is a statue of Napoleon standing before what was formerly the dormatory of the Abbey of San Fran but which is today the hotel Deville or city hall. The beautiful Gothic Palace of Justice. The chatau of Rua is famous in history as the scene of the imprisonment and trial of Jonavar. All that remains of the ancient castle is the tower dungeon. And though never occupied by her, it bears the name T Jeand. The upper portion has been restored and to it a roof added. In the old marketplace, still in use, a statue of the 19-year-old sainted martyr overlooks a raised stone plaque that marks the legendary sight of the burning in 1431 of the immortal maid of Allian. [Music] Along the banks of the river send, which pursues a winding course through a considerable area of fertile Normandy, are many famous landmarks. vivid reminders of events in history. At Leandi is the Chatau Gard built in 1196 by Richard the Lionhearted who commanded the river at this turn and collected tolls from all passing ships. The farreaching waterways of France are used not only for carrying a major portion of all freight, but also by thousands of water lovers who spend pleasant summer months in house boats and smaller crafts, gliding past beautiful scenery and historic sites. A typical old Norman town of the Middle Ages, Leier, has recently become a place of particular interest. Among its attractions are the 12th century cathedral and an ancient pharmacy. [Music] Clumsy yet picturesque horsedrawn carts make their way slowly over the cobbled pavements of the many narrow crooked streets with ancient buildings that so appeal to all lovers of the past. [Music] Curios and carvings are displayed for the tourists and pilgrims who come to Leisure in everinccreasing numbers to visit the grave of Santes at which numerous miracles are said to have taken place. A magnificent new basilica has been built and dedicated to the young saints whose tomb in the future may be one of the holiest shrines of the Roman Catholic faith. [Applause]