Saumur, Historical fortress city in Maine-et-Loire, France
Description
Saumur sits on the Loire riverbanks and spreads across several levels between the water and hillsides covered with vineyards. The town preserves narrow streets in its old center, while newer districts extend along the river offering wide avenues with shops and cafes.
History
The hilltop fortress was built in the 10th century and later expanded by the Dukes of Anjou who made it a major defense point along the Loire. During the 16th-century religious wars the town became a Protestant center before returning to royal control.
Culture
The Cadre Noir equestrian team performs classical French riding methods at the National Riding School, maintaining traditional horsemanship through precise choreographed movements.
Practical
Walking along the river promenade offers views of the bridges and opposite banks, especially pleasant in early morning or late afternoon. Most attractions lie within walking distance of the center, though reaching the castle requires a steep climb uphill.
Did you know?
The white limestone houses throughout town reflect the stone quarried from local hillsides that was later converted into cellars for wine storage. Many of these underground galleries run for kilometers beneath the hills and are now used for aging sparkling wines.
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Musée des Blindés
1.8 km
Château de Saumur
600 m
Dolmen de Bagneux
2.2 km
St Florent Abbey
2 km
Pont Cessart
402 m
Église Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers de Saumur
1.4 km
Château de Boumois
6.7 km
École de cavalerie de Saumur
571 m
Pont du Cadre Noir
1.4 km
Château de Marson
5.2 km
Musée du Champignon
4.4 km
Église Saint-Pierre-du-Marais de Saumur
335 m
Temple réformé de Saumur
346 m
Château Bouvet-Ladubay
1.6 km
Chapelle Saint-Jean de Saumur
192 m
Hôtel de ville de Saumur
222 m
Musée du moteur
1.2 km
Pont des Cadets de Saumur
954 mChâteau de Pocé
4.3 kmChevalerie de Sacé
5.4 km
Église Notre-Dame-de-Nantilly
734 mÉglise Saint-Martin de Saint-Martin-de-la-Place
8.1 kmChâteau de Launay
2.9 km
Château du Vieux Bagneux
2.1 km
Couvent Notre-Dame des Ardilliers
1.4 km
Église Notre-Dame des Tuffeaux
8.1 kmChâteau de Beaulieu
2.7 kmChâteau de Chacé
5.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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