Romans and Lions

Excellent Roman amphitheatre in Saintes.

Last night (in La Tremblade) there was a vicious thunderstorm (through almost all of which I slept, I am told). There were repeat performances until about 11 am, with flashes and (very noisy) bangs virtually simultaneous. Huge downpours, rivers in the streets... Soon afterwards, almost cloudless sky, but still rather heavy.

Poor pussies (two) at the hotel didn't think much of it.

Hotel cat (La Tremblade) has been in the wars. Look at ear and tail! But v friendly, and likes hot tiles on roof.

Moved inland to Saintes (nearly to Cognac, still on Charente). Another big thunderstorm at lunchtime, sunny afternoon.

Here are today's relevant links:

Wildfowers, Saintes. I think that they are really escaped domestic flowers

The river Charente at Saintes

Germanicus arch, Saintes. 18-19 AD

Roman carving, Saintes. A great hall by the river has a collection of such 'finds'

Here's a wider view of the hall where the carving of the last 'photo was (it's on the extreme left)

Our dinner being grilled and kept warm (upper left grill). This is French 'fast food'!!! Fine frites & sorbets.