For our last trip, we decided to head south to a French town by the lovely name of Nancy, located in the Dutchy of Lorraine. Unfortunately, Ilya was not feeling too well so he stayed at home and we went as three musketeers again. After driving for almost two hours the GPS brought us to what was supposed to be the center of the town. We were a bit disappointed when our first glimpse of Nancy appeared to be a rather dull and unattractive city. However, we quickly changed our minds as we walked towards golden gates of Stanislas Square. As we entered the gates we saw a vast square surrounded by ornate gates with gold trimmings, elaborate fountains and beautiful architecture. To my surprise I learned that the town was designed by an exiled Polish king who became the Duke of Lorraine, Stanislas Leszczysnki. In 1737, Duke Stanislas decided to connect the southern and northern part of the city and to honor his son-in-law Louis XV, the King of France, with a beautiful square. The whole place looked a bit like Vienna to me (even though I had been there AGES ago). We strolled around the square admiring the architectural details and complaining to each other that no one makes beautiful buildings like these anymore.  

Near the square we found the beautiful Basilica Saint Epvre which quickly became one of the favorite churches we've ever seen. This 19th century Neo-Gothic style church had the most beautiful and elaborate stained glass windows. We spent about half an hour admiring the inside of the basilica before our stomachs reminded us it was time for lunch. After some middle eastern fast food we took a stroll through a pretty park with a small zoo that contained mostly goats and their stinky droppings. Making a stop at Nancy Cathedral (no where near as impressive as Saint Epvre) we made our way to the car and returned home where we found Ilusha just as we left him. 

Ps. Even though the title may suggest Nancy is pronounced like the popular name, it is actually pronounced more like "Nauh-see"

Luxembourg to Nancy trip Two hour drive to Nancy, France.  First glimps of Nancy - this is not what we expected based on our brief google search. Btw, if you are wondering about the bed on the right, there was some art project going on and such beds were scattered around the city. We stayed clear of them (they probably have bed bugs!).

Roses that look like a heart - local flower shop.  Entering Stanislas Square - we can honestly say that our earlier online search did not prepare us for this beautiful sight.  Ornate gate detials.  Vlad is probably thinking "Hmm, we could use a similar gate in our future house".  ;-)

 Duke Stanislas Leszczysnki statue.

Line to the Historical Museum of Lorraine at the Ducal Palace located inside of Stanislas Square. We chose to skip it because "ain't nobody got time for that"!  Place Stanislas, Nancy Place Stanislas, Nancy View of the vast square.  Time for a pic together - Thank you Dasha! This is one of very few non-selfies we have together from this trip.   Dasha & Vlad in front of Amphitrite Fountain. 

Exiting the square.

Outisde of Basilica Saint Epvre.

  Beautiful stained glass windows decorate the basilica. 

One of my favorite windows.

Close up of the stained glass - photo by Dasha. 

The altar.

Cross at the altar.   Outside of the Basilica.  Across the street from Saint Epvre we found the beautiful Palace of the Dukes of Lorraine, built in the 15th century. It now houses Musee Lorraine. We were all amazed by the intricate details of this building.  La Porte de la Craffe, a 14th century gate.   Goats at the small zoo in the park. They look in need of some TLC. Any takers?   Making our way home we walked through Place Stanislas again. 

In front of Nancy Cathedral.

Au revoir Nancy! You're a true beauty!