St-Emilion is a medieval village that somehow has survived the passage of time unscathed,
to the extent it has been heritage listed by UNESCO as an international site. Originaly it was a pilgrimage
site for pilgrims making their way to Jerusalem. St Emilion was a Benidictine monk who was a sort of Robin Hood
character, lived in a little cave, which is one of the holy sites in the village, along with the largest
underground church in Europe. The geography is clay and sandstone perfect for vineyards so for
centuries it has been a wine growing area. There is said to be over 200 kilometers of tunnels and
caves underground in the area. We visited Chateàu Rossabelle and saw their underground cellars.
Kirsty and I picked up a bottle each of their 2004 vintage, which will be at its best in 10years, so
they tell us. Incidentaly, although the cost of living here is much dearer than home, wine is very cheap.
Most recent Bordeaux vintages sell for less than $10 aus in the supermarkets. We had lunch at an outdoor
cafè then took a tour of the holy sites, that are still sacred and tended to, by the local faithfull. The picture
above of the girls is taken at the entrance to the underground church. We were forbidden to take photos
within. St Emilion realy is magical, all the tiny shops tucked into unlikley nooks, and the cobble stone
streets are just the way you would imagine them to be; you have to keep reminding yourself
that this is the real thing, not a recreation for a movie set!
See ya.
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