The view of the Renaissance garden from artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci's bedroom at Clos Luce in Amboise, France. Leonardo lived here the last three years of his life, at the invitation of King Francois I. The king was a fan of Renaissance art and greatly respected Leonardo's artistic achievements, as well as his intellect.
Roses drenched by rain in Leonardo da Vinci's private garden.
More rain-soaked Renaissance roses at Clos Luce.
Just back from a quick trip to Amboise and Chinon in the Loire Valley. While hampered by nearly continuous rain and road detours, it was a nice break from the transit strikes in Paris, now in their eighth day. France's high-speed TGV rail network also has been damaged by a "concerted campaign of sabotage," the SNCF state-owned rail operator told reporters. Acts of sabotage overnight, including fires, created further delays to TGV services.
On a brighter note, I find it inspiring to visit Leonardo da Vinci's home, as well as his friend and benefactor's castle. Last time we were in Amboise, I didn't have a digital camera; this trip, I was able to get some good shots, despite the rain and photo restrictions at historic sites. The absence of crowds of tourists certainly helped. After Thanksgiving, I will begin posting images and notes from the journey.
As we Americans pause Thursday to give thanks for our many blessings, let us remember those less fortunate and resolve to help in any way we can. Wishing you and yours a joyous holiday celebration.
Wonderful post, hope that you had a nice Thanksgiving Day! :)
Posted by: robyn | 23 November 2007 at 22:32
I love the roses!! Happy Thanksgiving...to you and yours!
Posted by: My Melange | 22 November 2007 at 17:12
Thanks -- so interesting to see -- gives me goose bumps. That's what's great about Europe, so much amazing history!!
Posted by: fleur | 22 November 2007 at 15:28
Happy Thanksgiving, Tara.
Posted by: Dorian | 22 November 2007 at 05:56
What a resolution for everyone to make this holiday season and New Year, Tara. K.
Posted by: Karen DeGroot Carter | 22 November 2007 at 03:45
What a resolution for everyone to make this holiday season and New Year, Tara! K.
Posted by: Karen DeGroot Carter | 22 November 2007 at 03:40
Yes, we need to firm up our resolve to help those in need. Thank you for all your posts, Tara.
Posted by: tut-tut | 22 November 2007 at 01:28
Oh Tara, Leonardo's garden, how fantastic is that???
I would love to see more photos, can't wait.
As for Thanksgiving, I agree. We share the same thoughts this holiday.
The sidebar badge for the Hunger Site on my site has some amazing gift giving options, instead of wasting money on things we don't need for ourselves. Mum and I are giving goats to Rwandan families this year, as well as nursing kits for African mothers. There are a ton of great ideas there.
xoxo
Gillian
Posted by: Gillian @ Indigo Blue | 22 November 2007 at 01:11
Happy Thanksgiving, American Girl in Paris. Hope it's magical!
Posted by: artzyjudie | 22 November 2007 at 00:45
Wow, Tara. What a beautiful view.
Who needs turkey when you have these beautiful roses? :-)
Happy Thanksgiving!
Posted by: karen cole | 22 November 2007 at 00:31
Beautiful photos, Tara - thank you for sharing them. I love seeing a little glimpse into Da Vinci's life. I'm so thankful for your posts and photos, that give me a window into places I might not see otherwise - thank you!
Glad you had a good time, despite the rain and detours.
Wishing you and yours, a very happy Thanksgiving!~xOxOxO
Posted by: tinker | 21 November 2007 at 21:51
I forgot to say Happy Thanksgiving to you!
oxox ;)
Posted by: Amber | 21 November 2007 at 21:06
Very cool to see this again.(We spent most of our one trip to France in this area.Loved it!)
Are those rose bushes that old, do you think? That is amazing, if so.
Happy you had a good time.
Who is doing the sabotage to the TGV?
:)
Posted by: Amber | 21 November 2007 at 21:05
lovely place and splendid garden. are there some more images of leonardo's room, tara??
wishing you a great holiday and happy celebration on thanksgiving!
Posted by: marita | 21 November 2007 at 19:35
Renaissance roses for a Renaissance lady... And Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, Tara.
Posted by: Marilyn | 21 November 2007 at 19:21
Hi Tara,
I love roses. :)
Have a happy Thanksgiving.
Rose
xo
Posted by: Rose Dewy Knickers | 21 November 2007 at 19:11
Boone is making a special spinach, apple, walnut and gorgonzola salad - would you like some?
We are cookin' up a feast here at Be... Dream... Play...
and sending you love and wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving...
xox - eb.
Posted by: eb | 21 November 2007 at 18:01
Oh, that middle rose photo is like a painting - exquisite!! xx, JP/deb
Posted by: JanePoe (aka Deborah) | 21 November 2007 at 17:24
Tara, Enjoy your Thanksgiving!
Posted by: stephanie | 21 November 2007 at 17:21
Glad you are enjoying your trip and the photos from Da Vinci's home are glorious. Wishing you and your family a lovely Thanksgiving.
Posted by: cherie | 21 November 2007 at 15:16
Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving Tara. I posted some pictures from around Passy, it's already been a month.
Posted by: Brian | 21 November 2007 at 14:07
Good morning, Tara! ..What a treat to see Da Vinci's home and view of the garden! Oh ..words can't begin to tell you how delighted I was to see this post! Being an 'artist' I was thrilled! Thank you for sharing ..always sharing... such wonders! That's what I am thankful for today..heee heee!
Posted by: Pam Aries | 21 November 2007 at 14:06