History of Whipped Cream

Every January 5th we celebrate National Whipped Cream Day and pay tribute to the sweet cream that compliments a wide range of desserts. Not surprising that this luscious topping originated from France, where it is known as Crème a la Chantilly.

Crème a la Chantilly’s exact origins are unknown, legend has it that it was invented in the 17th century by Francois Vatel, maitre d’hotel at the Chateau de Chantilly. At the Chateau de Chantilly, Vatel supervised a huge banquet for Louis XIV and a reported 2000 guests, where he created the now famous cream for use in pastries. Sadly, Vatel would not be able to enjoy the later popularity of Chantilly cream. He committed suicide later that night, when he feared his fish would be served late.

The Chateau de Chantilly is a historic chateau in the town on Chantilly, France. The Chateau bears a storied history itself, the original mansion, built in 1528 but was destroyed in the French Revolution. It was rebuilt in 1875 by the Duc d’Aumale to augment the 17th century remains with a neo-gothic museum to house his fine collection of art. Works by Raphael, Titian, Poussin, Tiepolo as well as the extraordinary book of hours once owned by the Duc de Berry hang in the salon-style picture galleries.

The Chateau de Chantilly comprises two attached buildings, the newer Grand Chateau, which houses the Musee Conde, and the Petit Chateau which was built around 1560. The Musee Conde is one of the finest art galleries in France and is open to the public. The Gardens feature extensive parterras and water features were laid out principally for the Grand Conde. The English Garden was designed in 1819 with romantic highlights such as the Temple de Vénus, the abode of swans and other aquatic birds that nest in its numerous islands, the Jardin Anglais, which also contains a large multi-basin fountain designed by Le Nôtre in the 17th century, and the Cascades de Beauvais.

The estate overlooks the Chantilly Racecourse and the Great Stables. According to legend, the Prince of Conde believed that we would be reincarnated as a horse after his death, and had stables built to suit his rank. These 610 foot long stables are considered by some to be the most beautiful in the world.

An underrated and somewhat less congested domain than the Loire, the scenic Chateau de Chantilly makes an ideal day trip from Paris. Explore the eclectic home of the Princes of Conde and later the Duc d’Amale, sample Crème a la Chantilly at its birthplace, and delight in the extensive gardens.

Foodies, history buffs and art lovers aren’t the only ones who will enjoy the Chateau de Chantilly. Choose to visit the Chateau de Chantilly with your small group on Celtic Tours exclusive Experience France Vacation.

Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is one of the best known Parisian landmarks, besides the Eiffel Tower. It is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, characterized by the adoption of the pointed arch and invention of the flying buttresses to support the flamboyantly higher walls. Notre Dame de Paris was one of the first Gothic cathedrals, and its construction spanned the Gothic period. Its sculptures and stained glass show the heavy influence of naturalism, unlike that of earlier Romanesque architecture.

The name of Notre Dame in French means “Our Lady”. In the sanctuary, leaning against the south east pillar of the transept, flowers which remain white honor a Virgin with Child dedicated to “Notre-Dame de Paris” Ever since the cathedral was first founded in the 12th century, an altar dedicated to the Virgin has stood on this spot.

Tradition has it that the first stone of Notre Dame was laid in 1163 in witness of Pope Alexander III. Construction continued throughout the entire Gothic period, with the remaining elements being completed in 1345. Attention to detail at its greatest, 182 years to build!

The organ of Notre Dame was first built in the 18th century and then almost completely rebuilt in the 19th century. The organ has 7,800 pipes, with 900 classified as historical. It has 111 stops, five 56-key manuals and a 32-key pedalboard.

There are five bells at Notre Dame. The great bourdon bell, Emmanuel, is located in the South Tower, weighs just over 13 tons, and is tolled to mark the hours of the day and for various occasions and services. There are four additional bells on wheels in the North Tower, which are swing chimed. These bells are rung for various services and festivals. The bells were once rung manually, but are currently rung by electric motors. When it was discovered that the size of the bells could cause the entire building to vibrate, which threatened its integrity they were taken out of use.

Whether you visit for the exquisite art and architecture or for the religious experience, when in France the Notre Dame Cathedral is not to be missed. Make it a stop on your Celtic Tours Experience France Tour of Paris and Nice. Our Experience France Tour is perfect for small groups of 10 or more. Learn more about this exciting France Vacation.

Experience France: Small Group Tour

France Experience - Small Group Experience

Celtic Tours new France Experience Tour is designed for small groups of 10 or more. Great for Family and Friends.

Experience these inclusions on your Experience France Tour:

* Three nights four star hotel in Paris - Concorde Opera Paris Hotel.
* Three nights four star hotel in Nice - NH Nice Hotel.
* Round-trip airport transfers.
* Continental breakfast daily, except for day of arrival.
* Second class rail tickets between Paris and Nice.
* Local hotel taxes.
* Celtic Tours flight bag and portfolio of travel documents.

Learn More About this great France Travel Package

Please note - hotels are on request and subject to change. Tour prices based on a minimum of 10 participants. Higher priced tour may be offered with fewer passengers. Full details will be provided by our reservation staff - and for further information please call 1-800-833-4373.