Gems Of The Loire Valley – The Pottery Of Gien

Find out why this stunning earthenware pottery makes Gien one of the must-see towns on any French canal holiday!

For millennia, the River Cher in the Loire valley has carried passengers and cargo along itswaterways. The beauty of the route makes it an obvious choice for French canal holidays,and those who embark on the voyage are seldom disappointed with the culture, spectacularscenery and wonderful towns and villages along the route; a route that stretches out to theAtlantic.

One of the many delightful towns on the waterway through the Loire is Gien. With a richhistorical culture, architecture and vibrancy, this beautiful spot is distinctly French. Canalholidays that take in this wonderful place get to enjoy the famous pottery which people flockfrom all over the world to see.

Faience Earthenware

The famous pottery of Gien makes for a great excursion when on a French canal holiday, asit is something that is best appreciated in the city where it is produced. It is an earthenwareof supremely high quality, and has a beautiful white glaze that gives it a similar look to

porcelain. Involving a double baking method, this pottery making was developed in theMiddle East over a thousand years ago, before making its way to Europe via Spain.

The popularity of Faience in France came about through war. When Louis XIV wanted toensure that his armies had enough money to fight, he raised taxes very significantly on silverand gold tableware. Of course, these increases led to a rise in the production and value ofearthenware, and Faience in France was born.

Faience in Gien

Gien’s reputation is built on this magnificent earthenware and it is proud of its heritage as aplace of skilled production. Since the late 1800s the reputation of Faience in Gien hasincreased worldwide and there is a wonderful museum dedicated to the finest local products.It’s a top sight for fans of pottery and artistic practice when on a French canal holiday.

Of course, while you won’t be able to take home any of the priceless artefacts in themuseum, there are plenty of opportunities to purchase the pottery as a souvenir. Wanderaround Gien and you’ll find lots of places with beautfiul pieces for sale.

Bon Voyage

Barge trips in this part of the world offer a brilliant way to experience the culture and customsof many towns and cities that are classically French. Canal holidays are nearly always madebetter when booked with reputable tour operators, who can ensure that your time on thewater is as relaxing and comfortable as possible.

There are few holidays as special as one on board a barge that weaves through theromantic and beautiful Loire Valley. The Faience pottery that you can see in Gien is a realstandout, but is by no means all that this route has to offer. There are countless wonders onoffer to those taking the trip.

Author Plate

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK'smost respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury French canal holiday itineraries. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in lineto endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holidayexperience.

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