Every Monday in Chalais there is a traditional French market which has been ongoing for centuries. The first Monday in May, together with the Erasmus and international volunteers, I set off from La Giraudière in Brossac at 09.00 on the 10 kilometre trip in order to participate in this local ritual of visiting the Monday market.

Upon arrival, to the surprise of our group of merry volunteers, there were market traders selling all that one could ever need. The narrow streets were packed with stalls laid out and displaying their goods and produce. Everything was there including clothes, fresh products, books, trinkets and costume jewelry. The noise was everywhere as people, who use the market as their weekly rendezvous, pass on their nouvelles to each other. Competing with this are the market traders trying to get your attention for their particular merchandise and fresh products.

Looking down from above us is the imposing chateau of Chalais, which has seen more Monday markets than I can imagine. Once we had finished with our market day we decided to start the climb up to the imposing castle high above the ville de Chalais. Alas upon our arrival at the famous Chateau Talleyrand, the sole working drawbridge in Europe was closed for the day.

If you like Chalais’ market then check out a Chalais Market post about it.
Or maybe you are interested in volunteering in France then visit our website at Volunteer in France.