Orgelet, Medieval town in Jura, France.
Orgelet is a medieval town perched on a rocky hilltop in the Jura region, surrounded by fortification walls and traditional stone buildings. The settlement retains its historic layout with narrow streets and winding pathways that lead to viewpoints overlooking the surrounding landscape.
A charter granted in 1292 by Jean I of Chalon established the town as a regional administrative center with authority over the surrounding area. This position gave the settlement its political importance and shaped its development over the following centuries.
The Church of Notre Dame de l'Assomption stands at the heart of the town with its medieval architecture and ancient organ. Religious life has shaped how the community is organized and how people move through the main streets today.
A marked walking path loops through the town and takes about one hour to complete, with several viewpoints scattered along the route. The terrain is hilly with some steep sections, but the viewpoints reward the effort with wide views over the region.
Leon Bel, who created the La Vache Qui Rit cheese brand, started his first cheese business here in 1865 and connected this town to the story of a globally recognized brand. What began as a local operation would eventually become one of France's most famous food exports.
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