Birds

I already posted, soon six years ago (see here), about the Flower Market on Ile de la Cité, close to Notre Dame… 

... and once more, soon two years ago (see here), when Queen Elizabeth visited it and it was renamed “Marché aux Fleurs Elizabeth II”.

Well, on Sundays this market place becomes – also - a bird market. 

You find of course also all you need to keep the birds in good shape… although of course imprisoned. 

Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth II made a three day State visit to France, in combination with the 70-years D-Day celebrations. She finished it by a visit to the Flower Market (see previous post) on Ile de la Cité, which at this occasion changed name to “Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II”.

It was raining before her arrival; public and officials under umbrellas or trees.

She appeared ... and the rain stopped. Prince Philip was of course there as well as the French President.

The Queen listened attentively to the speech by the newly elected Mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo. As we can see on the top picture, the Queen who is fluent in French and doesn’t need any translation of the official speeches, was smiling, as she has been during the whole visit.

Then it was time for a walk among the spectators… I lost the view of the Queen. Not easy with all body-guards, official photographers… and the Queen is not that tall.

When it was time to leave, the rain resumed. I got a picture of Prince Philip when he managed to enter his 93 year old legs into the car without difficulties. 

Flower market

On Ile de la Cité, in between Hôtel Dieu (see previous post), Notre Dame (see previous posts), the Palais de la Justice (see previous post) with the Sainte Chapelle (see previous post) you can find a Flower Market (Marché des Fleurs) which has been there since 1808.

One can of course find a lot of flowers and garden equipment / decoration. On Sundays, there is a “bird market”. I must go back!