Magdalenetours

We invite you to join us from 20 to 26 September 2010

There are many little-known treasures (and pleasures) hidden in the lush volcanic landscape of the Auvergne. A rich hoard of Romanesque churches each sublimely reflects its own unique spirit of place, while in remote shrines and great Cathedrals, many ancient statues of the Black Madonna and "Virgin in Majesty" wait to be discovered. Their appearance is striking and can be profoundly moving. Some, like the Madonna of Le Puy, have mysterious links to the East, possibly through the Crusades. Others, like the magnificent Black Madonna of Orcival, have the dignity of the Great Mother in majesty, her divine son recalling the mysteries of Attis or Osiris, her authority emanating the wisdom of Holy Sophia.

We are delighted to welcome as our guide the well-known author, lecturer and teacher Dr Roger Woolger, a lifelong student of religion and mysticism, whose great pleasure is introducing others to the civilization and culture of medieval France. We will stay in comfortable hotels (no chains!), and aim for a balance of exploration, learning and companionship in our groups. In Lyon, we stay at the Hotel des Artistes, next to the Opera House; we will have time to explore this city of Cybele before moving onto the heart of the Auvergne in Issoire, visiting the great Romanesque churches of Brioude, St. Nectaire and Issoire, and searching out the Black Madonnas such as those at St. Gervazy and Vassivière; also the great pilgrimage centres of Orcival and Le Pûy, with its Moorish Cathedral and St. Michael Chapel high on a volcanic plug.

Mayflower is a new name for the partnership between Marigold Hutton and Jane May, evolving from events and pilgrimages which they have organized for the Jupiter Trust for many years. Further conferences and tours are in preparation.

BOOKING We are now making arrangements for the tour; a group of 20 people is needed for us to go ahead and commit to hotels by the end of February. If you would like to come, we ask for early receipt of your deposit to ensure the tour goes ahead. TOUR COST: Guide price £750 based on shared twin room, & current exchange rates; includes all transportation/accommodation in France, and most main meals. Some singles available (early registrants!) at a supplement of £75. Please note: the tour begins and ends in Lyon; group members make their own travel arrangements to Lyon via air to Lyon or Eurostar/TGV - we are happy to help & advise. Final balance payments are requested in May 2010.

Please enrol me in your tour; I enclose my £150 deposit. I understand the itinerary is provisional, and that deposits are only refundable in the event that the given price is significantly exceeded (or the tour does not take place), & that I will receive a full itinerary & travel information. Cancellations in writing more than 60 days before the tour receive refunds as recoverable from French suppliers; no refunds after that date, please ensure you have adequate travel insurance, which is not included.

Please make Sterling cheques payable to "Marigold Hutton" and US $ cheques payable to "Roger Woolger", and mail to our office address (over) Thank you .

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