Brittany

by Philippe Barbour

Cadogan's half-Breton author takes the reader on a lovingly described tour of Brittany, through great cities and granite villages to dramatic headlands and isolated beaches. Full details of local markets and festivals encourage you to stray from the beaten track, while a section dedicated to the spellbinding Mont St-Michel gives a unique insight into this arresting ancient monument. Hand-picked, inviting places to stay and eat, easy-to-use maps, clear layout and rich cultural background detail combine with expert advice on everything from Neolithic ruins and old fortifications to Breton bagpipe music and delicious cr�pes. Old Breton legends are interspersed with enticing descriptions of contemporary local life in a guide that is as revealing as it is reliable.

Genres: Travel

520 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1998

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 1 out of 5]

My main problem with this book is that the author, despite being of Breton descent, did not seem to have much respect for the local traditions and history of this region. As a student of history myself, I do of course realize it's important to distinguish between fact and myth. I think, however, this can be done without snide, unprofessional remarks. In addition, some historical events were presented incorrectly. For example, it's stated on page 36 that the Roman Emperor Constantine made Christianity the state religion and outlawed all other religions. That is not accurate. Constantine issued the Edit of Milan, which made Christianity a legal religion to practice in the Empire. Errors like this one cause me to question everything else relating to history in the book.

I bought this book because I wanted to learn more about Breton culture as well as travel information. I can't vouch for the travel parts, as I haven't gone there yet. Glad I don't base my desire to visit on the disinformation in this book; otherwise I might have never wished to go there.

[Mojca · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars