Ideally situated midway between the North of France and the Mediterranean, the Tournugeois is located in the heart of an area whose hills and the River Saône, lend an incomparable mildness to the lifestyle of its inhabitants. In the South of Burgundy, the area already reflects the relaxed atmosphere of the Mediterranean. The Tournugeois is endowed with a rich heritage: museums, Romanesque churches, castles... No-one can remain indifferent to it all.

Tournus, the old Town

Picturesque lanes, houses with coloured facades, flat roofs covered with rounded tiles: all these elements emphasize this Mediterranean atmosphere. Streets and monuments are animated all year round, following the rhythm of the various markets, concerts and exhibitions which take place there. Above and beyond its international reputation for gastronomy, with its famous chefs, Tournus has become a favoured stopping place for pleasure craft cruising on the River Saône.

The Abbey of Saint Philibert of Tournus

A masterpiece of Romanesque art from the 11th and 12th centuries, this soaring silhouette, surrounded by ramparts, dominates the old town. It is the only surviving group of twelfth century monastic buildings in Europe. The abbey church, cloisters, chapter house, refectory and cellar make up the only surviving group of twelfth century monastic buildings in Europe. The unique architecture of the nave gives it a surprising amount of luminosity. The crypt and the upper chapel are also worth a visit.
Information: Tourist Information Office of Tournugeois - +33 (03) 85 27 00 20

Hôtel-Dieu Greuze Museum in Tournus

The hospital of the 17th and 18th centuries has retained its three wards and its adjoining herb garden. The dispensary contains more than 300 earthenware jars. The fine arts museum displays collections from prehistoric times right up to the present day. The works of J. B. Greuze (an 18 th century artist, born in Tournus) are, of course, well represented.
Information: +33 (0)3 85 51 23 50

Bicycle Museum

Take a trip into the world of the bicycle. The collection ranges from the ancient dandy horse, a simplistic bicycle made in 1818 and which was propelled by kicking the ground as there were no pedals, right up to Chris Boardman's carbon fibre bike designed by Lotus for the 1992 Olympics, along with many more amazing bicycles. Come along and be among the first to discover this exceptional collection. The diversity of the exhibits makes this a museum which is unique in France.
Information: +33 (0)3 85 27 00 20

Brancion Castle

This is a wonderful example of architecture from the period between the 10th and 14th centuries. The living accommodation, built on the orders of the Duke of Burgundy, Philip the Hardy, is particularly remarkable as well as the keep and the amazing view it offers. The village, with its market place and alleyways, is also well worth a visit. The Romanesque Saint Peter's Church is a must. It is situated at the far end of the rocky outcrop and contains some delightful wall paintings.
Information: +33 (0)3 85 32 19 70

Le Tournugeois, un Jardin Roman

There are in Soutern burgundy more than 250 Romanesque Churches, which is unique in France. Each Tournugeois' village has his own Romanesque Church.
Information: +33 (0)3 85 27 00 20

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