Bellême, Medieval commune in Orne, France
Bellême is a medieval commune perched on a hilltop in northwestern France, surrounded by historic stone walls that protect its central core. The settlement preserves narrow streets and centuries-old buildings that form the heart of the village.
The Saint-Sauveur Church was originally built in the 15th century and underwent major reconstruction between 1675 and 1710. This structure reflects the religious and architectural evolution that shaped the town.
The international mushroom festival draws nature enthusiasts and food lovers each year to celebrate the fungi found in the surrounding forests.
The town offers several outdoor activities including a golf course, swimming pool, and motocross track for visitors to enjoy. The hilltop setting provides good walking opportunities through the surrounding countryside.
Aristide Boucicaut, the founder of Le Bon Marché in Paris, was born in this town during the 19th century. His legacy connects this small commune to the history of modern retail in the capital.
Location: canton of Bellême
Location: Orne
Location: arrondissement of Mortagne-au-Perche
Elevation above the sea: 203 m
Shares border with: Saint-Martin-du-Vieux-Bellême, Belforêt-en-Perche
Address: 61130 Bellême, France
Phone: +33233853100
Email: mairie.belleme@wanadoo.fr
Website: https://villedebelleme.fr
GPS coordinates: 48.37639,0.56056
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:01
The Perche region preserves an architectural heritage spanning from the Middle Ages to the classical period. Castles, churches, and abbeys in this Normandy area showcase the evolution of construction techniques and artistic styles from the 11th to the 18th century, influenced by Norman and Ligurian traditions. Medieval fortifications such as the Château de Bellême and Château de Senonches demonstrate the strategic role of this territory between the Duchy of Normandy and the kingdom of France. Religious buildings, including the Church of Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei with its Romanesque murals and the Notre-Dame of Mont Harou with its fortified tower, reflect the importance of monastic and parish life. Lords’ residences like Château de Montimer and Château de Frazé offer insights into residential architecture in Perche. The Perche Museum in Bellême and the Royal Military College Museum in Thiron-Gardais complete this exploration with collections related to regional history and military heritage.
Château du Tertre
1.9 km
Salvator church of Bellême
40 m
Château des Feugerets
5.1 km
Ville close de Bellême
109 m
Château de la Pellonière
7.1 km
Chapelle Saint-Santin
242 m
Église Saint-Cyr-et-Sainte-Julitte de Saint-Cyr-la-Rosière
7.8 km
Ancienne église de Courthioust
7.8 km
Motte castrale de Garenne-de-la-Motte
7.5 km
Prieuré de Chênegallon
4.1 km
Tour de l'Horloge
147 m
Maison du Gouverneur, Bellême
191 m
Enclos prioral de Dame-Marie
4.7 km
Hôtel Bansard des Bois
208 m
Golf de Bellême
994 m
Église Saint-Martin d'Igé
6.5 km
Église Saint-Jacques de Vaunoise
5.9 km
Église Saint-Martin de Saint-Martin-du-Vieux-Bellême
1.4 km
Église Saint-Germain d'Appenai-sous-Bellême
3.5 km
Église Notre-Dame de Bellavilliers
7 km
Église Saint-Jean de Saint-Jean-de-la-Forêt
5.7 km
Église Saint-Ouen de Saint-Ouen-de-la-Cour
4.6 km
Église Saint-Rémi de Sérigny
1.3 km
Église Saint-Aubin de Saint-Aubin-des-Grois
6.6 km
Église Saint-Barthélemy du Pin-la-Garenne
7.3 km
Église Saint-Latuin du Gué-de-la-Chaîne
2.7 km
Église Saint-Pierre de La Chapelle-Souëf
6.4 km
Église Notre-Dame de Dame-Marie
4.8 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
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