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Briancon

Culture of Briancon. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Briançon A picturesque Alpine city, Briancon never ceases to attract new visitors with its unique landmarks and beautiful nature. Despite the fact that Briancon is famous primarily as an Alpine resort, guests of the city shouldn’t neglect an opportunity to visit many interesting places and attend various excursions. It is particularly important to mention the ancient church of the Cordeliers, the building of which was ended at the beginning of the 15th century. The church still has fabulous frescos, the age of which is more than five hundred years.
Local culinary traditions are widely known and famous for their elegance and refined taste. Unforgettable high cuisine, various delicacies, and fragrant wine – Briancon is a true gem for … Open
A visit to the Francis I fountain is also included in every excursion in Briancon. The gorgeous fountain was also built in the Middle Ages. For many, Briancon is a synonym of numerous ancient military fortifications. The main symbol of the city raises proudly on a high hill. This is a beautiful citadel that was built by the Catholics in order to protect an important route from Milan to Vienne on the River Rhone. It is important to mention that the historic part of the city got its look thanks to efforts of Vauban, famous military engineer. It was he who guided a large scale reconstruction of the citadel in the 17th century. It was transformed into a beautiful fortress that remains one of the most famous protective facilities of the country.
Various streets start near the castle. During a walk there it is also possible to see many interesting architectural landmarks and historical monuments. There is also a fragment of an ancient protective wall in this part of Briancon, as well as an old gate that once was an entrance to the medieval town. Nowadays, everyone is welcome to climb up to the top of the wall and enjoy the spectacular panorama of the city’s neighborhoods. There are also two ancient aqueducts in the historical part of the city. They are known under quite unusual names, the Great and Little Gargoyle. Copyright www.orangesmile.com
Locals care about etiquette rules. While talking to them, travelers might notice several traits of the national character that describe Briancon people and the French in general. For … Open
Suburban areas of Briancon also have a great number of unique historical landmarks. The city is located in the center of the so-called “Five Valleys”. Every year, fans of ecotourism from different parts of the world come here to enjoy outdoor recreational activities. When the weather permits, vacationers are welcome to explore hiking and cycling routes. In winter, cross-country skiing in snow-covered forests remains one of the most popular sports. Exploration of picturesque places, visits to interesting historic landmarks and excursions in the museums – travelers will not get bored in Briancon.
Briancon Briancon is not incredibly rich in museums, but some of them deserve close attention. The Musee d’Art Sacre (of the Museum of Sacred Art) is an interesting museum that is open in a gorgeous venue – the Saint Pierre chapel. Therefore, visitors will be able to enjoy both the architecture of the prominent landmark and the exhibition of the museum inside it. The chapel is previously known under another name – the chapel of the Penitents. The exhibition of the museum is dedicated to religious artifacts. Many precious items of different age were borrowed from as many as thirty chapels across the region, but mostly from Monetier-les-Bains. The majority of items date back to the 15th to 19th centuries. It’s a great place to get acquainted with the development of religious artifacts over the time.
It doesn’t matter if you visit Briancon in summer or in winter, the city always has much to offer to its guests. Fans of recreation and various outdoor activities will not need to … Open
Tourists interested in the historical past of the region will also find it exciting to visit the Museum of Mining. This is a large informational hub that is dedicated to different aspects of mining. Visitors will find out how mining was developing in the region, see old equipment, and find out cultural and heritage aspects of this industry. Even though Briancon is famous mostly as a ski resort nowadays, mining was important in the past, so its history is linked to the history of the region in general.
Briançon In addition to the fortress of Vauban (Cité Vauban), there are several other fortification constructions in the city. We are talking about the likes of Fort du Mont Chaberton. Climbing here is definitely worth the effort, at least for the fact that from here opens up unimaginably beautiful views of the city and surroundings. Besides, for those who wish to buy souvenirs, there are excellent shops here, and those who want to eat can stop at a good restaurant. As regards the history of the fort, it is worth noting that the structure played an important role in many historical events. It is for this reason that stories connected with it should be definitely listened to; many of such stories can be told in the brightest details by the local residents.
Fort Du Chateau is another defensive structure. It was designed by the same architect who built the Vauban fortress – that is, by Sebastian Vauban. This happened in the year 1677. Here you can also enjoy wonderful views, and the climb up here will definitely be memorable, because at this time you can also see unimaginably beautiful views of the surroundings. Nearby you can find the Musee de la mine, where you can get acquainted with the traditional folk industry of the region, that is, the mining industry. The place is very atmospheric and makes you feel the spirit of the time. Close by you can see another museum, which will be appreciated by all lovers of modern art; it is about Center d'Art Contemporain.
Briançon Absolutely awesome feelings can be sensed by walking along the Ponte Tibetano and feeling like Indiana Jones. This is a real adventure with the intention of overcoming yourself and your fear; adrenaline seems to be flowing to all parts of the body at that time. Many people note that despite the fact that the process is unimaginably scary, the feelings gotten are worth it. The views that open up to the surrounding area are simply astounding. Near the bridge, you can find a restaurant where you can have a snack having passed the path. Another building in the city worth visiting is the Theater du Brianconnais.
Among originally designed hotels in Briançon, Hôtel De Paris deserves special attention. Located a few minutes walk from the railway station, it is decorated in accordance with beautiful … Open
You can have a wonderful walk through the Grimp'in Forest. The park is designed for an active rest. Nevertheless, you can sit here quietly, having gotten rid of worldly fusses and just enjoy the moment. There is a “wild” park on the territory of the park, and it crosses the endlessly beautiful Durand River, which you can look at for ages. La Croix de Toulouse is another great place for a walk. It is famous for its beautiful views that open up on Briancon and the fortification constructions. There is a picnic table on its territory, which means that you should not miss the opportunity to arrange a picnic here. You are allowed also to feed the squirrels; the young citizens will like this kind of entertainment very much.
In the section below, you can get one of our excursion, activities or city discovery tours over Briancon and surroundings. Our website offers 10-30% lower ticket prices, when compared to the offline purchase on the spot.

City tours, excursions and tickets in Briancon and surroundings

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Reference information
Map of all churches
Cathedrals and basilicas near Briancon
♥   Abbazia dei Ss. Pietro e Andrea di Novalesa, San Pietro, 41.9 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, 48.3 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Chiesa San Verano ad Abbadia Alpina, Pinerolo, 51.8 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette, Antsirabé, 53.1 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Basilica di S. Maurizio, Pinerolo, 53.3 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Cattedrale di S. Donato, Pinerolo, 53.6 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Basilique Notre-Dame du Laus, Saint-Étienne-le-Laus, 57.7 km from the center. On the map   Photo
Car rental on OrangeSmile.com Rentals in Briancon


Photogallery of cultural heritage of Briancon

Landmarks of culture on Briancon map: art-galleries, monuments, palaces, etc

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Excursions over cultural sights of neighbours of Briancon

Culture guide to Briancon. Which fascinating sights to visit once you are in Briancon: temples, churches, museums, theaters and castles. Recommendations (with addresses, phone numbers and links) on the places 'must visit' in Briancon. Plan your own city excursion by using this page info!
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