Date/Time
Date(s) - 11/06/2025
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Almost a year and a half ago, my girlfriend and I had just stepped off our first barge cruise in the South of France, drifting along the Canal du Midi, and already dreaming of one day returning to explore Burgundy the same way.
Nine months later, that dream became reality when our phone rang from Barge Lady Cruises with an opportunity to join just such a cruise on the Luciole—a “charming class” barge—with five other couples. What followed was a week of pure enchantment: medieval towns, the French countryside unfolding around us, endless vineyards, exquisite meals prepared by our onboard chef, and the warm hospitality of barge owner Penny Liley, her captain, and amazing crew.
Among countless highlights, one stood above the rest: our visit to the Basilica of Vézelay, guided by none other than Christopher Kelly.
Now, the FHS Chicago–Midwest Chapter invites you to relive that same sense of wonder. Join us at Volo’s cozy-chic all-season patio as we welcome Christopher Kelly, visiting from France, for a fascinating talk about FHS’s 2025 special grantee: the Basilica of Vézelay.
Enjoy a cocktail dînatoire and an open bar featuring curated Burgundy wines, local beer, and soft drinks as we journey together through the philosophical and architectural genius behind Vézelay’s ethereal grace — a marvel of design from the earliest chapters of our shared history.
About Christopher Kelly
Christopher Kelly graduated from Cambridge University with a degree in history before moving to Paris where he majored in business at the École Supérieure de Commerce. He worked in business in the cities of London and Paris. He then focused on the artistic and social world, including cultural projects in poor rural areas and organizing musical exchanges between France and North America. Since 2009, he has been a guide based in Vézelay, accompanying the development of the Maison du Visiteur there, creating new media for visitors and coordinating artistic and spiritual projects locally, regionally, and internationally. During Covid, he walked from Vézelay to Assisi.
The French Heritage Society
Open to all lovers of France, French Heritage Society aims to ensure that the treasures of French architectural and cultural heritage survive to delight, educate and inspire future generations. Over the past 43 years, FHS has awarded more than 700 restoration and cultural grants to properties throughout France and in the United States and selected and supported nearly 600 university students who have crossed the Atlantic for internships at esteemed institutions. FHS has 11 chapters, 10 in the U.S. and one in Paris, and membership includes access to all.
FHS Chicago-Midwest: Weaving the past into the future: preservation, collaboration, celebration!
This is a ticketed event and space is limited, so we encourage early booking to ensure your spot – Sincerely, The Volo Team
For more information, to register by phone or make a tax-deductible donation, please contact Benjamin Wells, FHS Programs & Membership Officer (212-759-6846. ext. 201). Proceeds from this event will support restoration projects selected for funding by the Chicago-Midwest Chapter.
Event Sponsors:
