On June 14, 2024, we, the French course Q2, spent a day learning about French history and culture. Our day began at 9:50 a.m. in high spirits, enjoying authentic French pastries (Merci, Aux délices normands!). The first item on our agenda was a visit to the Ambassade de France. We were warmly welcomed there after passing through a security check. During the tour, we explored the outstanding architecture and art. We also learned a lot about working in an embassy and about the special role of the French embassy in Berlin in preserving and strengthening the Franco-German friendship. Afterwards, we quickly made our way to the Federal Foreign Office, where we were given an insight into the historical importance of the French language in everyday diplomatic business.
A highlight was exploring the political archive, where all the state treaties are kept, and the crisis centre. Despite the rain, we continued the excursion and visited the Friedrichswerder Church. Then the great, charming, and talented actor Jules had to jet off to his DS rehearsal while the others did their shopping (including in the food department of the soon-to-close Galeries Lafayette) and made final preparations for the French dinner. After tea and biscuits, Jules rejoined the group and the cooking began, with various challenges to overcome (séparer des œufs, faire fondre le chocolat, quelle catastrophe!).
Menu de la soirée: Apéritif avec Kir royal (sans alcool), olives, biscuits, rondelles de saucisson; terrine au poisson (Fish pâté); ratatouille au four (oven Ratatouille) et galettes au quinoa (Quinoa cakes); plateau de fromage; mousse au chocolat au lait de coco.
Our day ended with this culinary highlight and a deeper understanding of French culture: Vive la France, l'Europe et l'Amitié franco-allemande!!!
