We are Totally in Toulouse!!!

A little history on Toulouse:

The city of Toulouse was originally founded over 2, 000 years ago. It was founded by the Volques Tectosages. In the 1^st Century B.C. the Romans took over the city. They took the liberty of renaming the city to Tolosa. The Romans remained in control of the city until the 5^th Century AD when it became the capital of the “Kingdom of Toulouse” as named by the Visigoths. There was a rise of Catharism in the 13^th century. Depending on the historian it is controversial to as if this was a period of disorder.  Later, the Catholics recaptured Toulouse. They proceeded to build churches as well as a university.  In 1444, the city had its first parliament and the representatives were in control of the power of running the city. The French Revolution marked the end of parliamentary power. The city’s first mayor was elected. During the industrial revolution, the city grew tremendously and became the largest city in the region. The 20^th century saw an influx of aeronautic companies. Toulouse is now known for its role in aeronautics and space.

Important places to visit include Le Capitole and the Saint-Sernin basilica. The basilica is touted as a must see on the way of St. James pilgrimage. Le Capitole is the home of the Town Hall and the Théâtre National du Capitole and is known for its beautiful architecture. 

Reflection upon seeing the city:

Toulouse, France is a beautiful city. I have quite enjoyed my stay here!! Between the pastry shops and beautiful architecture, my complaints are at zero! Today our group visited 4 sites that are important to the area and the pilgrimage; these included: Basilique St.-Sernin, Couvent des Jacobins, the Musée Toulouse, and the Notre Dam du Taur church.
 While all of these were very insightful and informational in their own ways, my favorite of those we visited today was the Couvent des Jacobins and the beautiful garden there. After walking through the stunning building with its dual sides of stained glass, the outside had a garden area that was absolutely gorgeous. It was a square that contained some typical trees of the area and some pathways that seemed to me to be almost prayer labyrinth like. For many of us, It was a place that reflection was especially prominent; Many sat and pondering, in prayer, or journaling. The museum was also a very nice site. Situated right near the Basilique, it gives a lot of history to the city. My thoughts turn to the pilgrimage ahead and I think about how many pilgrims and pilgrims to be might be in this city right now. Our journey lies in front of us as this is just the beginning but it is safe to say that we are all excited for our experiences including the physical and the spiritual that may present themselves.

On a side note, the weather for the last day and a half has also been quite notable with blue sky visible and abundant sunshine. It was great weather for walking and exploring the city. Toulouse is a bustling city, but I can definitely feel the French qualities as we explored the city including the exceptional architecture and attention to spending time with family and friends often over fine food and wine. 

And our journey continues, Buen Camino!

--Emily B