Langres, City of Art and History

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Langres, City of Art and History

One of the 50 finest towns in France
7 towers, 7 gates,
and 3.5 kms of ramparts

At the gateway to Champagne and Burgundy, with its high ramparts, its imposing towers, and numerous church towers, Langres soars above the plateau like the proud fortress it is.

History has spared the 3.5 km long ramparts that encircle the town. Stroll along them, and enjoy the magnificent views: to the east, the land rises gradually from the Lac de la Liez and the Marne valley towards the Vosges. And if you’re lucky, on a clear day you can sometimes see as far as the Bernese Alps. To the west, beyond the lush Bonnelle valley, is the Langres plateau with its hedges and wooded hillsides.

Amble through the maze of small streets and covered passageways, and you cannot fail to learn more about the history of this fascinating town. A history that encompasses the Gallo-Roman period - ancient monuments, the mosaic of Bacchus and graceful sculptures. A history that encompasses the Middle Ages – the plots of land and the impressive Cluniac cathedral. And finally, the Renaissance – as witnessed by the elegant mansions, which are today occupied in grand style by rich local families. Lessons from Antiquity have been particularly well embraced in the local classical architecture.

The Counter Reformation saw a number of religious orders settling in Langres. Many of the monumental buildings they left behind today house public institutions.

The last witness to the development of military know-how that helped reinforce this rocky outcrop, which had probably been fortified since the 3rd century, is the austere 19th century citadel. But this is more than a vestige of days gone by - today the citadel hosts numerous cultural events.

Langres really is an art and history book come to life. Over the centuries the town has always managed to adapt to the vagaries of time, yet has continued to remain true to itself. And this is probably why everyone feels at home here!

Practical informations

• Langres city hall
  Place de l'Hôtel de Ville
  BP 127
  52206 LANGRES cedex
  Tél : 03 25 87 77 77
  Fax : 03 25 87 27 77
  
  Service Culturel
  Tél : 03 25 87 60 34
  
  Service Patrimoine
  Tél : 03 25 87 60 32
  
  Service Jeunesses
  Tél : 03 25 87 60 25
  Web :
  http://www.langres.f...