Bourges, Gothic commune in Centre-Val de Loire, France
Bourges is a commune in the Cher department in Centre-Val de Loire region, about 145 miles south of Paris. The town spreads across several hills rising between the Yèvre and Auron rivers.
The Celtic settlement Avaricum was conquered by the Romans and grew into a major trading center. In the 15th century King Charles VII made it his residence while much of France remained under English control.
The name comes from the Celtic Bituriges people who lived here for centuries. Today medieval half-timbered houses line the old town streets and host shops and cafés.
The train station connects the town with Paris, Lyon, and other regional destinations. The old center is easy to walk around since many sights lie close together.
In spring the Printemps de Bourges music festival turns the whole town into a large concert stage. Different venues across the center feature contemporary musicians and bands from France and abroad.
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