Canal du Centre's Side: A Melody of Motion in Burgundy, Swinging to the Beat of the Water
The Blondel family, consisting of Xavier, a captain, and his son Bastien, a aspiring trawler captain, embarked on a week-long water-based vacation on France's Canal du Centre. Spanning 112 km, this historic waterway connects the Saône to the Loire, and is now primarily used for tourism.
Their journey began with a challenge, as getting the 15-meter long boat out of the port was a feat due to the boat's size and the narrow, treacherous docks. But once underway, the journey has been relatively calm.
The family's first stop was Paray-le-Monial, a city known as "the City of the Sacred Heart" and famous for its 12th-century Romanesque basilica. A significant stop for both pilgrims and vacationers, Paray-le-Monial offers a tranquil respite amidst its historic surroundings. The Blondels took time to visit the basilica during their stay.
The Canal du Centre played a crucial role in the region's industrial history, particularly in the ceramics industry. In the 20th century, around forty factories that produced earthenware products were connected to the canal, forming what was known as the "Ceramic Valley." Brickworks along the canal had a direct link with the cargo barges, facilitating the export of ceramics, including tiles and glazed bricks.
One such emblem of local know-how in ceramics is the Perrusson villa, a few kilometers further along the canal.
As they prepare for their final pass over the Loire, Bastien, who is a student in a maritime CAP, dreams of captaining a trawler in the future. For now, he enjoys the opportunity to take the helm along the canal under his father's watchful eye.
The Digoin aqueduct, built in 1838, is another technical feat along the canal. Spanning 243 meters, it provided a water link between the Mediterranean and Atlantic facades.
The Blondel family's week-long adventure continues, as they navigate the picturesque waters of the Canal du Centre, immersing themselves in the region's rich history and stunning landscapes.
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