France Travel
Heavenly Stone Masons
Medieval masons created almost magical architecture with their magnificent mastery of stone and geometry.
The Psychology of Strongmen
We are seeing a global rise of strongmen leaders. We take a look at what make strongmen tick and why they gain followers.
How Mountains Move
Mountains grow, shrink and change shape both slowly and suddenly, and human behavior is changing them in alarming ways.
The Style that Went Around the World
Most Gothic architecture was built in the 19th and 20th centuries when the medieval style underwent a global revival. Now, Gothic is trending again.
How to Read Stained Glass Windows
Stained glass windows, one of the most durable types of art, have long imparted both powerful religious and secular messages.
Saint Sulpice Church - Paris’s Temporary Cathedral
Saint Sulpice Church in Paris has a turbulent history dating to the 7th century. Today, it is Paris's temporary cathedral amidst the pandemic.
The Sustainable Culture of Yogurt Jars
Cute little glass and ceramic yogurt jars have become a DIY trend and recycling strategy.
The Rosetta Stone
The Rosetta Stone, which revolutionized the study of Egypt and ancient languages, continues to court controversy today.
Versailles’ Checkered Legacy
Versailles has an image of lavish opulence under the Sun King, Louis XIV, but the palace also has a history of revolution and American ties.
Gothic Architecture - Imagining Infinity
Gothic architecture has been called both magnificent and monstrous. We examine why.
The Panthéon of Paris
The Panthéon in Paris, France's national mausoleum, embraces the contradictory themes of the nation's turbulent history.
Translating the Bible
Millions of Christians will turn to the Bible this week to read the Christmas story in hundreds of languages.
Resting Place of Kings
France's dazzling royal necropolis, the Basilica of Saint Denis, is also the birthplace of Gothic architecture.
How Crafts Help Us Cope
Crafts are booming as people shelter at home during the pandemic. We explore why, as well as ways to learn a new craft without stressing out.
Paris’s Oldest Church Restored
Paris' oldest church, Saint Germain des Prés, is emerging from layers of grime and soot as a meticulous restoration reveals its vibrant color.
Marie Antoinette and Barbie
Since she was guillotined in the French Revolution, Marie Antoinette has become one of the most popular icons worldwide.
A Tale of Two Roman Cities
The amphitheaters, military garrisons, forums, trade and craft shops of two Roman colonial cities have emerged from the dust.
Paris’s Oldest Food Market
Rue Montorgueil in Paris began as a village street with a medieval church and food market. It has retained that character.
The World is Flat (Bread)
Flatbreads are oldest, easiest breads and the most modern - pizza and tortillas are among the most popular foods. See our recipes.
What is the Louvre?
The former palace, the world's largest museum, music video and fashion show venue, and global brand has never been more cool.
China’s Export Porcelain
Chinese porcelain is durable and branded with its history, so it is used to trace China’s trade and cultural ties with other nations.
Yearning for Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the oldest and most popular foods and a booming global industry. Here's our recipe for creamy mild yogurt.
The Many Layers of Mona Lisa
Mona Lisa has long been mysterious, not just because of her smile. But was mystery or realism her famous creator's object?
The World Mourns Notre Dame
Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris, France's national cathedral, was badly damaged in a fire.
Travel is So Daily
As more and more travelers are discovering, travel is more about enhancing the life you have than escaping from it.
Scaffolding the World
Finding a historical site shrouded in scaffolding is disappointing, but it is a valuable tool for preserving the world's heritage.
Treasure Room and Two Palaces
In the French palace at Fontainebleau is a treasure room of dazzling artifacts taken by the French army from a palace in Beijing.
Enchanted Land, Part 2
Old stone houses, leather books with swirly handwriting and a village church mark the second part of our journey to the Rhone-Alps.
Enchanted Land, Part 1
A search for ancestral roots in southern France leads to a legendary land with a walled medieval town and tales of a magic sword.