Riom, Administrative commune in Puy-de-Dôme, France
Riom is a town in the Puy-de-Dôme department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It sits northeast of Clermont-Ferrand and features an old center with narrow lanes, squares, and buildings from different centuries.
The Romans founded a settlement here called Ricomagus, which later became an important center in Auvergne. Until the French Revolution, the town served as capital of the province and housed the seat of ducal administration.
The town name comes from Roman Ricomagus, a reminder that this place has held importance in the region for centuries. The old center is marked by houses built from dark volcanic stone, giving it a muted yet warm appearance.
The center can be explored easily on foot, with most sights close together. Many shops and restaurants close on Mondays or take a long midday break.
Two fountains in the center are dedicated to General Louis Desaix, who served during the Napoleonic era and fell at the Battle of Marengo. The town received the Ville d'Art et d'Histoire label, recognizing its historical architecture.
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