by Camille, age 7, asks Pere Fouettard are you the French version of Krampus, who punishes naughty children?, about the Rhone and Saone Rivers, and why Lyon is France’s food capital
Dear Pere Fouettard,
My name is Camille and I am 7 years old. I live in Lyon, France, where every December the whole city lights candles in the windows for the Fete des Lumieres, and my maman says it started because of a statue on a hill.
First, are you the French version of Krampus, who punishes naughty children?
Second, a geography question: what two rivers meet in Lyon?
Third, a school question about my country: why is Lyon considered the gastronomic capital of France?
I left you a slice of buche de Noel and cider.
Love, Camille, age 7, Lyon, France, Lyon, France
From the Desk of Pere Fouettard
Dear Camille, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Are you the French version of Krampus, who punishes naughty children?
We are distant cousins in spirit. I walk with Pere Noel here in France, dressed rather sternly, mostly to remind children gently that manners matter, though in truth I spend far more time carrying his heavy sack than doing any actual scolding.
What two rivers meet in Lyon?
The Rhone and Saone Rivers meet right in the middle of Lyon, and the peninsula between them, all lit up with lights during the city’s famous Fete des Lumieres, makes for one of the loveliest views on my entire French route.
Why is Lyon considered the gastronomic capital of France?
Lyon has long been famous for its exceptional food traditions, home to countless bouchons, small traditional restaurants, and celebrated chefs going back generations. Its position at the crossroads of several rich farming regions, plus a long culinary history, earned it the proud title of France’s gastronomic capital.
Joyeux Noel, Camille.
Ho ho ho, Pere Fouettard
