exploring medieval burgundy
may 2027
DR louise marshall
*** Preliminary Itinerary ***
Explore Burgundy’s cultural heritage, from outstanding medieval art and architecture to prestigious food and wine, complemented by a program of scenic walks in historic districts
OVERVIEW
Burgundy is an extraordinarily rich cultural destination. In the Middle Ages, it was a powerful centre of Christian renewal, witnessing the creation of two reformed versions of Benedictine monasticism that spread throughout Western Europe and shaped religious life for centuries. Ruled by a junior branch of the French royal house, the Duchy of Burgundy was a powerful independent state. Ruling a large territory that at its height included modern-day Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg, the ducal court set European tastes in luxury arts, such as manuscript illumination, painting, sculpture and fashion. More recently, Burgundy has become one of the world’s most prestigious small wine districts, with an unspoiled landscape.
This 10-day tour takes an in-depth look at the heritage of Burgundy, venturing out from a comfortable base in the pretty town of Beaune. Through a carefully-designed program of talks and excursions, we explore superlative Romanesque and Gothic art and architecture in Cluny, Autun, Vézelay and Fontenay. A complementary program of gentle hikes takes us through picturesque villages and vineyards, to fine Renaissance châteaux and gardens, and alongside the Burgundy Canal.
The touring program is complemented by select gastronomic experiences, showcasing the best of Burgundy, and by the expertise of your tour leader, art historian Dr Louise Marshall.
TOUR LEADER
Dr Louise Marshall is an art historian, with a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania and a specialisation in Italian art of the Middle Ages and Renaissance. She is an honorary senior lecturer in the Department of Art History at the University of Sydney, where she taught for over thirty years.
Louise is a popular lecturer and has frequently presented at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, including in conjunction with the Italian Institute of Culture (Sydney), and at the National Gallery of Victoria.
“Louise was exceedingly generous with her passion and knowledge” - Louise B, Istanbul, Ravenna and Venice, October 2025
Highlights
Admire the invention of Romanesque artists in stone and paint, from Autun and Vézelay to Berzé-la-Ville
Experience the beauty and harmony of monastic architecture in Vézelay’s soaring abbey and Fontenay’s peaceful cloisters
Enjoy five walks through the hills of Burgundy, discovering prestigious vineyards, chapels on the Way of St James, and stunning landscapes
Encounter world-class Burgundian art, including works by Rogier van der Weyden and Claus Sluter
Appreciate the terroir of the “Valley of Gastronomy”, with some of France’s most celebrated wines, cheeses and other regional delicacies
Questions?
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