The sight of castles and cathedrals, even in ruins, easily conjures fanciful histories of gallant knights in gleaming armor, lords and ladies holding court and monks laboring on beautifully illuminated manuscripts. If you know your history, those images may be augmented with some of the harsher reality of the times. Yet gazing upon these towering achievements, representing the foundation of our own modern history, never fails to impress.
After the fall of the Roman Empire and ensuing the Dark Ages, rapidly shifting paradigms across Europe encouraged the rise of both a feudal nobility as well as the Christian church. Ushering in the medieval era, this consolidation of wealth and power led to an age of monumental building and gave many cities and countries their familiar shapes and character.
We’ve compiled itineraries showcasing some of the most interesting, authentic and well-preserved medieval sites across the continent. In this first installment, we take a look at the stalwarts of Western Europe: England, France and Spain. Follow us through time as we tour architecture, landscapes and villages fit for a history buff—but never far from accommodations fit for a king.
"In the Middle Ages, southern France historically maintained a distinct language and relative independence from the northern kingdom..."
"Start your British journey in the northeastern city of York, where the immense stone gatehouses of the medieval walls immediately greet its visitors..."
"Spain is unique in European medieval history in that it was in varying degrees an Islamic territory known as Al-Andalus for more than 700 years..."
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
1 (800) 375-4685
Open M-F 8:30AM-5:30PM CT
