The story of this journey begins over 75 years ago, rooted in the deep bond between Denver and Brest, France—the second-oldest sister city relationship in the United States. This relationship was born out of compassion when a Denver teacher, moved by the devastation of WWII on Brest, shared her experience with her students. The students raised over $32,000 to help rebuild the children’s wing of Brest’s hospital, laying the foundation for a lasting Franco-American connection. Today, this bond continues to thrive, bringing together communities across the Atlantic.
In 2024, Denver Sister Cities International Brest Committee organized a delegation trip to Brest, inviting Citizen Ambassadors to explore the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of the Northwest Region of France. Janice Wohler, one of the participants, shared her memorable experiences, offering us a glimpse into the significance of this journey.
A Warm Welcome in France
Janice's adventure began with a direct flight to France, where she immediately felt the warmth of the local people. The journey started in Paris, where she explored the city’s cultural treasures, including a self-guided tour of Monet’s home in Giverny. Here, Janice immersed herself in the serenity of the artist’s gardens, capturing the essence of French countryside charm.
Her time in Paris also included delightful moments of sampling local cheeses and enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere. The culinary experiences were a highlight, offering a taste of France’s rich gastronomic heritage, including authentic beef Burgundy and buttery pastries.
Exploring Normandy and Brittany
The delegation then traveled to Normandy, where Janice visited Bayeux, home to the nearly 1,000-year-old tapestry depicting the Battle of Hastings. She described the emotional impact of viewing this historic artifact, which vividly brought to life the events of 1066. The visit to the cathedral in Bayeux, with its stunning stained glass and beautiful music, added to the sense of awe and reverence.
Normandy’s history was further explored during a visit to the beaches of D-Day, where Janice and the group were guided through the harrowing stories of the Allied invasion. A particularly poignant moment was at the American cemetery, where a veteran honored his fallen comrades by placing roses at the gravesites. Janice was deeply moved by the personal stories shared by the guides, including that of a mother who received telegrams about the loss of her son and husband, adding a deeply human element to the historical narrative.
A special highlight of the trip was the visit to Mont Saint Michel, an iconic island commune that has long been a symbol of France’s architectural prowess and spiritual heritage. As Janice walked through the medieval streets leading up to the breathtaking abbey perched atop the rocky island, she was struck by the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The panoramic views of the surrounding bay, combined with the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site, made the visit an unforgettable part of her journey through Normandy and Brittany.
A Taste of French Culture
The trip also offered Janice and her fellow delegates the opportunity to savor the flavors of Brittany. In the walled city of Saint-Malo, Janice enjoyed tastings of various types of butter, a regional specialty, while soaking in the charming coastal atmosphere. The breakfasts, with their delightful array of local dishes, were a daily treat that added to the immersive experience.
Connecting with Brest
The highlight of the trip was the time spent in Brest, Denver’s first sister city. Janice was struck by the resilience of the people, especially during a powerful visit to Fort Monterey. Here, the history of Brest came alive, reflecting the strength and determination of its residents.
Janice’s interactions with the Brest delegation were marked by warmth and camaraderie. She engaged in meaningful discussions about student exchanges and explored the significant collaborations with Denver—a testament to the enduring legacy of the sister city relationship.
Discovering Quimper
Another memorable stop on the trip was the charming town of Quimper, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. Janice was captivated by the picturesque streets lined with half-timbered houses and the majestic Saint-Corentin Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. The town’s vibrant art scene, particularly its famous faience pottery, offered a deep dive into the region’s artistic traditions.
During the visit, Janice had the pleasure of meeting Jean-Jacques Quinquis, a talented local artist known for his exquisite watercolor and oil paintings. Quinquis, who has lived in Quimper for about forty years, shared his latest project with Janice—a diptych that beautifully captures the essence of both Denver and Brest. This artwork, a symbol of the enduring sister city relationship, is set to be presented to Denver City Hall. Janice was deeply moved by Quinquis’ passion for creating connections through art, and she appreciated the way his work celebrated the unique bond between the two cities.
Celebrating Bastille Day and Beyond
The delegation’s visit coincided with the Bastille Day celebrations, adding a festive flair to the experience. The day was filled with cultural exchanges and festivities, culminating in a memorable evening that highlighted the Franco-American friendship.
Janice expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve as an ambassador for Denver. The trip not only deepened her understanding of the historical ties between the two cities but also reinforced the importance of people-to-people diplomacy in fostering international friendships. They even made two newspaper articles, one in Brest and one in Quimper.
"Traveling to Brest was more than just a visit—it was a journey into the heart of a friendship that has stood the test of time. The warmth and resilience of the people of Brest, especially during our Bastille Day celebrations, reminded me of the power of human connection across borders." — Janice Wohler
As Janice reflected on her journey, she looks forward to sharing her experiences with others and continuing the dialogue about the rich cultural exchanges that define the Denver Sister Cities International program. Her experiences in Brest have left an indelible mark, and she is eager to share her experiences in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia and her next Citizen Delegation to Takayama, Japan this November with Denver Sister Cities International Takayama Committee.
Conclusion
Janice Wohler’s journey to Brest was more than just a trip; it was an immersion into the history, culture, and spirit of a city that has long been connected to Denver. Through her experiences, we are reminded of the power of diplomacy and the lasting impact of global friendships. As Denver and Brest continue to build on their 75-year relationship, the stories and connections forged during this delegation trip will undoubtedly inspire future generations of citizen diplomats.
