Eglise Saint Alpin

The Church of Saint Alpin,

in the Gothic and Romanesque style,

was built between the 12th and 16th centuries. 

Dedicated to the eighth bishop of Chalons,

it includes his life-sized tomb in the central walkway. 

Just before Christmas, 

one spot in the church housed several nativity scenes

created by different artists. 

Most of the time,

the nativity scenes do not include the baby Jesus

until Christmas Eve.

He is most often conspicuously missing.

But several of these included him. 

Outside, we walked the streets where I

sometimes can't help but take photos of window displays...

such as these Santas and Christmas items made out of chocolate. 

And this chocolate fountain! 

Most cathedrals in any French town or village

include a monument to the dead soldiers 

of WWI.

And below, the French flag 

and names of the "Soldats morts pour la France."

An exceptional building.

The city of Chalons-en-Champagne

is filled with medieval houses

like the one below. 

Next time I'll share some photos of the church in Paris

where we enjoyed a piano and accordion concert.

Thanks for stopping by! 

And unbelievably,

nearly time to say Welcome to February.

(Photographs copyright: Kirsten Steen)

(Info via Wiki)