Montélimar, Historical commune in Drôme, France
Montélimar is a commune in the Drôme department of southeastern France, sitting along the Rhône Valley between Lyon and Avignon. A castle on the hilltop forms the visible center, while below narrow lanes, squares, and low houses with pale fronts shape the older core.
The Adhémar family built a fortress on the hill during medieval times to control the trade route along the river. Later the structure became a seat of power, remaining a defining landmark even after the noble family declined.
The name derives from Latin Mons Aemilianus, referring to the hill that still shapes the layout of streets and buildings. Visitors see workshops and storefronts throughout the center where artisans prepare the white confection using regional ingredients and display their work openly.
Visitors reach the center on foot and can explore the lanes and the hilltop with the castle comfortably in half a day. Most workshops and shops lie along the main street and adjoining side lanes in the older town core.
The Palais des Bonbons et du Nougat displays old toys, historical classrooms, and confectionery collections across several rooms. Visitors also see machines and tools once used in production.
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