#3 The Basilica of Vézelay and French Gastronomic Meal

Hanging gardens of Avallon, France

The third meeting proposed a reflection on membership in UNESCO.

Israel and the United States recently dropped out of UNESCO. Students reflected on the the context, causes and consequences of this drop out. They pondered upon the complexities of the context (economy, culture, diplomacy, history, etc.)  and upon this decision had on both former members and UNESCO.

Here is the summary of their reflections : US/Israel departure from UNESCO

The Basilica of Vézelay

The Basilica of Vézelay (front view)

This Basilica has been part of the tangible UNESCO heritage since 1979. It is an active monastery and an important step in the pilgrimage of Saint Jacques de Compostelle. Bescides, its unique architecture make the basilica a masterpiece which needs to be preserved.

The Basilica of Vézelay (nave)

This basilica was build in a romanesque style typical from Burgundy. It uses bi-colored, typical stones from the region, creating an alternance of brown and beige within the walls. Later, it was extended with gothik architecture.

The nave was designed so that during winter and summer solstices, a way of light appears on the floor, guiding visitors from the entrance to the altar.

St Mary Magdelene Relics - Kept in the basilica

In the crypt, pilgrims can see the relics of St Mary Magdelene, safely preserved within the basilica. The relics was acquired by Benedictine monks in the 9th century, which has made Vézelay a place of pilgrimage since then.

French Gastronomic Meal

Students gathered after setting the table

French cuisine is well-known around the world. However, the meal ritual is less known, but evenly important in French culture. It was included in UNESCO intangible heritage in 2010.

Students took part of this ritualized moment and learned the organization of the meal, but also how to set the table, how to behave during a French meal and how this ritual contributes to a sense of togetherness.

 Waiting for the promised meal

Service is part of the gastronomic meal. French students taught visiting students how to serve properly food and drinks during a gastronomic meal. French etiquette is part of respecting others and contribute to feeling part of the group and welcome.

It is also a celebration time.

This gastronomic meal was the occasion to commemorate May 8th, 1945 and remember the importance of peace in Europe.

Main course

Of course, this commemoration happened in front of a delicious meal!

The organ of St Lazarus Church, Avallon

Students adopted the organ of St Lazarus during this meeting.

This organ is important in the history of the Church. However, it needs to be restaured and lack financial aids. Students decided to mobilize to protect their cultural heritage.

Video #1 - Basilica of Vézelay

Video #2 - French gastronomic meal