Although with the passing of the years and the advancement of technology, long-distance trips have become more popular and several European cities see the number of visits they receive per year increase by thousands, the Old Continent still keeps hidden some charms that still escape the intensity of mass tourism.
One of them is the city of Saint Jean de Luz (Saint Jean de Luz), a true jewel in France that houses an invaluable treasure: the iglesia in which the boda of one of the most famous kings in the world.
A milestone in the history of Louis XIV
The history of European monarchies It is usually a point of interest for many of the tourists who come to this continent thirsty to explore the corridors and nooks that keep the behind the scenes of history and the lives of the kings who ruled the world for centuries. And when we talk about France, one face specifically comes to mind: the face of Louis XIV.
It is true that a large part of the visitors to France who aspire to encounter this part of history usually go to look for it at the emblematic Palace of Versailles, which, due to its level of pomposity and elegance, immediately refers to this monarch.
However, there are other sites that were essential in the king’s life. One of them was the church of Saint John the Baptist (Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church), located in the city of Saint Jean de Luz.
Located in the heart of the French Basque Country, on the border with Spain, the city that houses the historic church is a magical enclave in which the roofs of the houses, in red and green tones, illuminate the landscape in whose background the Pyrenees appear.
in that church The famous Louis XIV of France and Maria Theresa of Austria were married on June 9, 1660.known as “the girl from Spain”, whose union would constitute a key link in the relationship between both countries.
A year before the religious event it was placed there an organ, especially requested by royalty. The wedding also had a key political function: contributing to the cessation of conflicts between the two neighboring countries. Some even consider it the most important political wedding in all of history.
Architecture, the market and the view from Santa Barbara Hill
Located just half an hour by car from the famous San Sebastiánthe city of Saint Jean de Luz is one of the most beautiful in the French area of the Basque Country.
Because of his strategic location, so close to Spain, many of its inhabitants speak both French and Spanish. And, although the architectural style of its houses respects the traditional Basque imprint of red, green and white, as is common to see in this area of the Pyrenees-Atlantiques, the city perfectly combines this feature with other emblematic features of French life.
An example of this are its traditional walk -fair-, which take place twice a week in the city, and in which it is possible to find as much fresh food such as the classic Iberian ham and even local crafts. In recent years, the Argentine empanadaswhich made a space between the stands that exhibit flavors of the region.
Many Parisians come to this city escaping the rains so common in Paris and in search of a bit of sun, tranquility and some tapas so typical of this region.
As a result of the history of this city and its link with this monarch, several of the points in its center have received his name. Thus it is possible to find there the Louis XIV Square o to Louis XIV House Museum –which organizes guided tours-, among other places.
One of the most beautiful views that it is possible to enjoy in Saint Jean de Luz is the one obtained after climbing the Santa Barbara Hill.
A circuit through the region
Although it is undeniable that Saint Jean de Luz has its own unique style, it is also true that it is still a small city and most travelers usually combine their time there with other visits to the region and tour the country. Basque, either in its Spanish version or in its side French.
Beyond its proximity to the crowded San Sebastián, home of the emblematic film festival, there is also other basque cities that can be included in the itinerary of a trip through this area.
It is the case of Biarritzfamous for the extension of its endless beacheswhich year after year attracts thousands of surfers from all over the world. In fact, in 2015, Biarritz received the official title of Surf City. From the statue of the virgin, a must-see point in the city, it is possible to access a unique view of the Bay of Biscay.
Ideal to do by car, although it is also possible to access several of these places by train, since the road itself is an unmissable adventure, the walk through the Basque Country is a must of a visit to both France and Spain. Their infinite charms “They did not go unnoticed even by himself.”sun king“.