The ancient Roman city of LeMans, France becomes the epicenter of world motorsport every June with the running of the 24 Hours of LeMans. The race was never held within the walled city, but pre-race events are, many in front of the sixth-century church — Notre Dame de la Couture. The Driver’s Parade and scrutineering (technical inspections of the cars) take place in the heart of the city, especially in Place de la République, just outside the medieval walls. The actual race is run on the Circuit de la Sarthe, eight km south of the city.
LeMans is more than 1,800 years old. The Romans built the walls and turrets to protect the city, using rubble from other older buildings. As the artistic mosaic design suggests, they weren’t in a hurry, but they were extremely serious about its strength and its intimidation factor. The walls and forty turrets protected an enclosed area of about twenty-two acres. The walls are still structurally sound in many places and modern buildings have been incorporated into the old. Their age shows the genius of the original architects. Why can’t we build things that last that long?
I discovered LeMans during research of my ancestors for my historical fiction novel. My main character, Marie, traveled to LeMans when she was twelve. The city would have been enormous compared to the hamlet she came from. I can imagine her being awestruck by the massive walls, the number of people, and the noise and traffic. Probably very frightening for a young peasant girl.
PS: The 24 Hours of LeMans race has been run since 1923 when it tested the reliability, mechanical durability, and fuel efficiency of road cars of the day…Bentley, Bugatti, Aston Martin, Chrysler, and other.
For more historical tidbits: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1185865059974956
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Jeanne Meeks ~ Fiction Author 