Baugé
In this pretty rural town we discover the extraordinary Apothicairie de l’Hotel Dieu. A monument to healthcare in the 17th Century, set in a vast Chateau like building which functioned as a hospital until 2001...
The wood panelled pharmacy is incredible, full of pots and boxes containing ancient medicines including gruesome mummified fingers (I wonder what they were used for).
There are beds and a maternity room the like of which I’ve never seen before. It’s a
fascinating place which deserves a lot longer time than I had – allow at least 2 hours to take it all in. Just down the road is the Chateau de Bauge which dates from the 15th Century and is worth a visit if only to admire the incredible spiral staircase.
Pop into the town and linger in a café and watch the beating heart of this place as people go about their business. It’s an old town, full of gorgeous buildings and well worth a detour.
Details: www.chateau-bauge.fr