Rue Longue - Traverse des Diamants
This narrow vaulted passage allows us to walk from Rue Longue down to the sea. It was originally built for the Princes giving direct access to a landing stage.
Legend has it that the ladies of the Prince's Palace often lost their jewelry in this obscure traverse so the Mentonnais would quickly run to the passageway as soon as one of the grand ladies had passed by. Much more likely, is that the moon on the sea resembled the shine of a diamond.
There is much, much more to show you in Rue Longue - the Palais Princier, the Hôtel Pretti and so on - but tomorrow, for a day or two, I want to introduce you to a few people I met over the Easter break in Menton. But we'll be back to Rue Longue, I promise.
14 comments:
Funny story, true or not. Beautiful shots, but the first one is in a class apart.
Love these architecture in deed!
That's a great story, and I also like the top photo.
yeah... beautiful..
I'm willing to follow you and your camera anywhere, Jilly.
Wow nice photos of the passageway. The story is amazing too.
That's very nice to see that kind of passage today but I am sure a few centuries ago they must have been real "coupe-gorges".... Have a nice weekend, Jilly.
Jilly, it appears that the street level is much higher than one would think in comparison to the entrance to the stairway. Is it because of the new street or do you know?
Wonderful photos btw.
Thanks, Drew
What a romantic legend.
I love to enter in these traverses ignoring where they will take me. Just like entering in a labyrinth. Without being lost, given I always finish to find my way.
I like also hearing voices from hidden people in an other "rue", or from the opened windows of the houses. It makes this old town alive.
I'm loving all the history of Rue Longue. I remember that passage but I had no idea how it was named.
Love the legend and the photos Jilly. My what a charming place. Can't wait to meet your new friends tomorrow!
V
Drew, that's a good question! Actually the street, ever since I've been here has been the same height so no it's not that. It does look a great drop but actually the first step down is cut into the street - so you don't bang your head.
Fabulous history and my kind of hidden place. Well not hidden exactly. The yellow that pervades this area makes me hanker to be back.
Fabulous history and my kind of hidden place. Well not hidden exactly. The yellow that pervades this area makes me hanker to be back.
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