Cité Médiévale de Pérouges, Medieval fortified town in Pérouges, France
The Cité Médiévale de Pérouges is a fortified settlement with narrow cobbled streets, stone walls, and half-timbered houses arranged in circular rows. The layout follows the original defensive ramparts that once surrounded the entire community.
The settlement began in the 13th century as a center for textile production, benefiting from its position between Lyon and Geneva on trade routes. Fortifications were expanded over time to protect its growing prosperity and strategic importance.
The town comes alive through craft fairs and local culinary traditions that reflect daily life here. Visitors encounter artisans at work and can taste the Galette de Pérouges, a local pastry recipe passed down through time.
The site is accessible on foot, but uneven cobbled streets require sturdy shoes for comfortable walking. Plan for slow-paced exploration, especially when navigating narrow passages and small staircases throughout the settlement.
The 15th-century church was built as a fortress church and stands as the only one of its kind in the Ain region. Its fortified style with thick walls shows how defense and faith were intertwined in this community.
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