Toulouse is also known as The Rose City because of its red brick buildings. The bricks are long and thin and reminded us of the buildings in Pompeii. I guess the Romans are responsible for this feature. The centre, where we were staying, is dominated by The Capitoleum, a local government building on a large, busy square with cafes along the opposite side and various events staged in the centre. In the short time we were in the city there was a bustling market, a tented protest/artist’s event, anti racism protest, various musical events and an exhibition of Toulouse’s multi-cultural diversity. There is a great mix of ethnicities in the city which is reflected in their music, shops, cafes, restaurants etc. Toulouse is also, of course, a university town so there are many students on bikes and mopeds. We were especially enthralled when, on Saturday afternoon, people began to arrive on the square with sofas and arm chairs. At first I thought it was a street act but as we walked back through the square later in the evening there were groups of young people arranged on the sofas and chairs having a good time with friends, listening to music or even making their own music! What a great way to spend an evening with friends! Like an evening in, but out!
One drawback of having a room overlooking the square was a certain amount of noise from the crowds but they were very good natured, no loud drunkenness and the music and drumming stopped before midnight. In the morning the square was clear and ready for another series of events.
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