The limestone promontory of the city of Langres soars above the lovely countryside of Champagne and Le Lac de la Liez. This magnificent city, sheltered behind an impressive 3.5 km of ramparts, is listed amongst the “50 most beautiful cities of France”. During your stay at the Kawan Village Lac de la Liez, you are invited to enjoy your discovery visit of Langres.

A City of History…

The history of Langres dates back to the Gallo-Roman era. The city was occupied by the Gauls early on. Positioned at the crossroads of a dozen Roman ways, Langres was fortified by the Romans and baptised “Andematunum’. One of the 7 tower gates marking the western access to the city originates from this era.

The Middle Ages brought about a period of intense prosperity to Langres; in part due to the growing influence of its bishops. During the 14th and 15th centuries, troubled times led to the construction of the ramparts that encircle the town as its population progressively increased. The flourishing Renaissance era witnessed the construction of magnificent public, military and religious buildings, as well as elegant mansions. The fortifications extended into the 19th century, adding an impressive citadel inspired by Vauban.

The Ramparts, Towers and Gates of Langres

Langres is encircled by more than 3 kilometres of ramparts and home to 7 gates and tower mountings. The most ancient gate dates back to the Gallo-Roman era and is, in addition, the oldest building in the city. The most recent, the ‘Porte des Terreaux’, or Terreaux Gate, was constructed in 1855. Each gate is witness to a different period in history, therefore boasts its own particular style. However, all strongly contribute to the lovely countryside surrounding Langres. Probably the most impressive is the ‘Porte des Moulins’, or the Gate of the Windmills, dating back to 1647 and positioned at the far eastern side of the ramparts.

In addition to its gates, the city of Langres is renowned for the towers that keep vigil over the ramparts. Like the gates, these towers depict the diversified evolution of the city. They cover history’s different eras, but nevertheless a majority was added during the 14th-16th centuries. Amongst the most significant is the St Didier Tower, built in the 15th century. Impeccably preserved, this tower demonstrates how the others must have looked before modification or destruction over the centuries. The Navarre and Orval towers, erected side by side in the south-western part of the city, constitute a very beautiful ensemble and are home to a monumental artillery tower measuring 28 metres in diameter!

These towers and gates belong to the city’s defence network, in past history protecting Langres from a spread of over 3 kilometres of ramparts. The promontory enables today’s visitor to discover the city, its towers and gates in a most fascinating manner, but also allows you to admire the stunning far-reaching panoramas from their heights.

The Historical Monuments and Buildings of Langres

Sheltered behind its thick walls, the city of Langres is home to public, religious and military buildings of utter beauty. Within the heart of this lovely image, the cathedral holds a major role. Although its façade originated in the 18th century the cathedral, influenced by the Benedictine Abbey of Cluny, was actually built in the 12th century. Langres has always been a highly important religious seat. Thus, the Cathedral of Langres hosts a beautiful interior and, above all, offers a stunning clear view of Le Lac de la Liez and its surrounding region (if you are willing to climb several dozens of stairs to the summit of its towers!). A pretty cloister adjoins the cathedral.

In addition to its cathedral, Langres is home to countless other religious buildings that are definitely worthy of a visit. Amongst these are the former Jesuit College, constructed in the 17th century, standing close to the cathedral; the former Convent of the Annonciades, dating back to the end of the 17th century; or yet the former 18th century Monastery of the White Friars.

The hospital, the city hall and the Valtier de Choiseur Mansion (end 16th century) are amongst the most beautiful secular buildings in the city.

Strolling through the Streets of the Old City

Audio-guide to visit Langres

Langres est une ville chargée d'Histoire et d'histoires. Afin de pleinement profiter de votre visite de l'une des "50 plus belles villes de France", l'office de Tourisme de Langres met à votre disposition des audio-guides : le guide-man®. Guère plus gros qu'un téléphone portable ce Guide-Man® vous accompagne pendant toute votre visite et vous propose des explications audio (disponibles en anglais, néerlandais et allemand) en différents endroits de la ville. Au menu de la visite, le Guide-Man® propose également des explications sur 40 oeuvres du Musée d'Art et d'Histoire.

En partenariat avec le camping du lac de la Liez, l'office de Tourisme de Langres réserve aux clients du camping une offre spéciale jusqu'au 15 juin 2008 : pour tout Guide-Man® loué, le second vous est offert.

Tarif : 4€ - comprend l'entrée aux divers monuments de la ville ouverts au public.

Pour plus de renseignement sur le Guide-Man® cliquez ici.