Actualités et contenus
Welcome to Chalons-en-Champagne
The capital of the Champagne-Ardenne is like the famous wine produced on its land: friendly and bubbly.
A two thousand years history
The city owes its name to the Gallic people of Chalons, installed on the oppidum called Attila’s camp. A military town since Roman times, Chalons developed at the crossroads of the Via Agrippa, which links Milan to Boulogne-sur-Mer and the Marne. In the Middle Ages, the manufacture of woollen cloth sold throughout Europe during the Champagne Fairs ensures its reputation.
For a short while, the city was known as Chalons-sur-Marne but in 1998, reverted back to its original name of Chalons-en-Champagne. The city has since consolidated its position as regional capital.
A city of art and history
- The Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame-en-Vaux (1150-1220) listed as World Heritage Site by UNESCO
- The St. Stephen's Cathedral (12th century) which just received a restoration program
- The church of Saint-Alpin (12th century): currently in restoration
- The Holy Cross Gate is dedicated to the Dauphine Marie Antoinette on her way to her wedding with the King of France.
- Many half-timbered houses or in “appareillage champenois” (alternation of brick and chalk)
A city of water and greenery
Every summer, the tourist office offers visitors to embark on the Mau and the Nau for an unusual stroll in the city. 13 streams pass through the town and gather hikers and anglers along the quiet trails. The gardens of the city centre are an invitation for relaxation: the Petit Jard and its public arboretum, the Grand Jard and its bandstand and the Jard Anglais. Each year, on the last Sunday of June, the Municipality organizes a family event in these areas.
An ode to joy
Chalons-en-Champagne beats to the rhythm of its festivals: music, circus, carnival and street theatre.
It houses the National Centre of Circus Arts, the only public school in Europe. This programming is complemented by the performances of the Comet Theater, national stage, and the “Entre-sort” of Furies.
Champagne!
Use your stay in the land of Champagne to taste the wine of kings in the cellars of Joseph Perrier or on the terraces of the countless cafes.
Mise à jour le Vendredi, 05 Novembre 2010 10:55